KL Report
SRINAGAR
Walnut industry of Jammu and Kashmir which earns Rs 150 crores per year has come under an intense competition as government of Uttrakhand has decided to develop two nurseries to start the local walnut production.
Districts like Budgam, Shopian and Rajouri in Kashmir and Jammu divisions are known for their walnut production which yields a huge income. The J&K produced walnut is sold in outside state markets like hot cakes.
The local experts are of the opinion that by the decision of the government of Uttarakhand to produce walnut locally can hit the industry in Kashmir. “We are already not being guided by the government so the Uttarakhand government’s decision can affect our trade in the long run,” a walnut grower from south Kashmir said.
Pertinently, the Uttarakhand government has decided to develop two mother nurseries in Kumaon and Garhwal regions of the state to give a boost to walnut production in the state.
The state has decided to implement “The Walnut Panchayat scheme” under National Horticulture Mission at the Panchayat level.
The Uttarakhand government has also decided to start a sub mission for and to train the farmers scientifically.
