Can Agriculture Revitalise Jammu and Kashmir’s Economy?

   

by Riyaz-Ullah

Follow Us OnG-News | Whatsapp

Leveraging modern technology, including precision farming, will help farmers address key challenges using satellite data and sensors.


Agriculture has always been the bedrock of any economy worldwide. It is the backbone of the economy, both nationally and regionally, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. For most of its population, agriculture is the primary source of livelihood.

Despite the region’s political and economic challenges, agriculture remains a fundamental pillar supporting rural and economic sustenance. Jammu and Kashmir’s agro-climatic conditions are diverse, allowing for cultivating a wide range of high-value crops that significantly contribute to the region’s economy.

Jammu and Kashmir’s topography and climate vary greatly, from subtropical plains in Jammu to cool temperate conditions in the Kashmir Valley. This ideal combination enables the growth of diverse crops across the region. In Jammu, major crops include rice, wheat, and maize, which provide staple food for the population.

The Kashmir Valley’s cooler climate is suited for horticultural crops, including the renowned apples of Kashmir. These apples are celebrated nationally and have a global presence. Farmers in the valley also cultivate pears, apricots, cherries, walnuts, and other crops. Saffron, cultivated in the Pampore region of southern Kashmir, is highly prized globally for its quality and uses.

In addition to these crops, Jammu and Kashmir also cultivate pulses, oil seeds, and various other items throughout the region.

Despite its vital importance to the regional economy and livelihood, agriculture faces numerous challenges that limit its potential. The primary issue is low productivity, resulting from farmers’ reliance on traditional farming methods in an era of advanced technology and High-Yielding Variety (HYV) seed facilities.

Water management is crucial to Jammu and Kashmir’s agrarian lifestyle, particularly in sheep rearing, which provides widespread employment opportunities for the people of J&K. Wool production, mutton, and dairy contribute significantly to the regional economy.

This critical challenge for the agricultural sector is primarily managed by pastoral communities, such as the Gujjars and Bakarwals, who seasonally migrate to graze their animals. J&K’s distinct geography, featuring high-altitude meadows, makes it ideal for livestock farming and dairy production, including milk, ghee, and other daily-use products.

This sector boosts economic growth, activates markets, and caters to the consumption needs of the common masses across the region.

Agriculture is the primary source of employment for Jammu and Kashmir’s population, particularly in rural areas. Over 70% of the union territory’s population is directly involved in agriculture or related sectors. Abundant water resources, its inadequate irrigation infrastructure is a significant concerns for farmers. Farmers’ heavy reliance on rainfall renders them vulnerable to weather and climatic fluctuations.

Disruptions in transportation and market blockades adversely affect the sale of agricultural products, leading to substantial post-harvest losses for both large and small-scale farmers. Furthermore, farmers lack proper guidance on the timely use of medicines and fertilizers, resulting in additional losses.

The high prices of quality fertilizers, manures, and medicines are unaffordable for cultivators, hindering large-scale agricultural production. Increasing subsidized rates for essential items may alleviate this issue.

Uncontrolled construction on productive and cultivable lands throughout the region is a pressing concern. This not only reduces agricultural crop percentages but also exacerbates unemployment. If left unmanaged and unchecked, construction on productive lands will have alarming consequences for Jammu and Kashmir’s population.

Recognizing the need to modernise Jammu and Kashmir’s agriculture, government intervention is necessary to initiate several projects to enhance productivity and support farmers. The Department of Agriculture is working progressively to modernize agriculture. However, it is crucial to focus on the ground realities of farmers, addressing their challenges, and engaging youth in this sector, as they are gradually leaving for other economic sectors or preferring to work abroad.

Financial assistance programs, such as the Kisan Credit Card and PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, provide significant financial relief to farmers. Other beneficial agricultural schemes include the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH): Promoting high-value crops. And, Pradhan Mantra Krishi Sinchayee Yojana(PMKSY): Optimizing available water resources

Shifting towards organic agricultural practices will enhance soil health and grant farmers access to premium domestic and international markets, where demand is continually increasing. Leveraging modern technology, including precision farming, will help farmers address key challenges using satellite data and sensors.

Boosting agro-based industries is essential for the growth of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy. Government support and intervention are necessary to achieve this goal. Establishing processing units for fruits, vegetables, and dairy products will add value to raw production, create new jobs, and alleviate unemployment in the UT.

Improvement in market linkages and infrastructure is crucial for tapping into Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural export potential. Cold storage facilities and efficient transport networks can significantly reduce post-harvest losses, particularly for perishable items.

Government support and intervention are necessary to improve access to national and international markets, boosting Jammu and Kashmir’s export profile and generating more income for farmers. This will revive the economy of Jammu and Kashmir.

By adopting sustainable practices, integrating modern technology, and focusing on agro-industrial development, Jammu and Kashmir can achieve economic growth and rural-urban development. This will boost the agricultural sector, improve livelihoods, and strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s overall economy.

Agriculture will remain the lifeline of Jammu and Kashmir’s economic and social landscape.

(The author is a faculty member at Bansal Classes, Magam. Ideas are personal.)

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here