Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, May 20: The introduction of imported cherry varieties from Bulgaria and Italy is yielding promising economic returns for Kashmir’s cherry growers, even as the region’s traditional varieties are yet to be harvested.
Farmers across the valley said that these early-ripening imported varieties are currently fetching attractive market prices. While traditional varieties like Siyah, which are nearing maturity, are expected to perform well, the main harvest of conventional cultivars remains several weeks away, they said.
Although the imported varieties lack some of the rich crunch, vibrant colour and nutritional qualities of traditional cherries, they possess a crucial advantage: resilience to adverse weather conditions. “Even light rainfall can damage traditional cherries and reduce their market value,” said Rashid Ahmad, a grower from Shopian.
He said the Italian and Bulgarian varieties are more tolerant of light and moderate rain and are only vulnerable during heavy downpours, making them a more reliable option in unpredictable weather.
Another benefit, growers said, is the staggered ripening pattern of the new varieties. “Traditional varieties tend to ripen simultaneously, flooding the market and causing supply-demand imbalances,” Rashid said. “This often forces growers to sell at lower prices due to their limited shelf life.”
The imported varieties ripen gradually in phases, ensuring a steady supply and more stable demand and leading to better profits.
Asif Ahmad, another regional grower, said this year, both Siyah and the imported varieties are priced around Rs 100-150 per kilogram. “While these prices are not extraordinarily high, they are profitable, and this year’s crop looks promising,” he said.
The extended harvesting window provided by the new cultivars has also positively impacted employment. “Traditional harvests typically run from mid-June to early July,” Asif said. “However, the prolonged ripening period of the imported varieties extends the season to nearly two months, creating more opportunities for both local and migrant labourers.”
Basheer Ahmad Basheer, President of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers and Dealers Union said that cherry prices are currently encouraging and that this trend is expected to continue as the peak season approaches. “With the upcoming harvest of traditional varieties and many imported ones, we remain optimistic about sustained demand and favourable prices,” he added.
Basheer further said that this year’s yield appears promising, boosting hopes for better earnings. “Approximately 80 per cent of cherry production in the valley still comes from traditional varieties, including Makhmali, Siyah, Awal Number, Jadi, Holland, Double, Mishry, Splendor and Steela,” he said. “Imported varieties like Italy currently comprise a smaller share but are steadily increasing in influence.”
According to official data, Jammu and Kashmir produces over 150,000 metric tonnes of cherries annually, making it the leading cherry-producing region in India. The union territory has more than 2,300 hectares dedicated to cherry cultivation, with Shopian, Ganderbal, and Srinagar as the primary producing districts.
