Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Aug 22: The introduction of modern apple grading lines across Kashmir is revolutionising the region’s apple packing and marketing processes, resulting in improved quality, increased profits for farmers, and the creation of new employment opportunities.
Horticulture has long been recognised as the backbone of Kashmir’s economy, with apples serving as its most vital product. A major portion of the local population depends directly or indirectly on this industry for their livelihood.
For years, apple growers voiced concerns over their inability to secure fair prices despite transporting their produce to various markets across the country. Experts say this challenge is primarily due to the lack of proper grading and quality packaging standards.
Some stakeholders, with government support, have established modern grading lines in different parts of the valley. These facilities sort apples based on size and quality before packaging, ensuring systematic and standardised handling.
The impact of this development is already evident. Not only are farmers benefiting directly, but traders, labourers, and transporters associated with the fruit industry are also reaping the advantages of the improved system.
Previously, grading facilities were mostly limited to cold storage units. Now, with government assistance, similar technology is being introduced at smaller scales, making quality grading accessible to a broader base of farmers.
“With the introduction of grading lines, apples reach markets in a more refined form and in less time. Fresh, well-packed fruits always attract higher demand, enabling farmers to secure better prices,” Mehraj Ahmad, a unit holder in Pulwama, said.
Subzar Ahmad, owner of a cold storage unit, explained the difference compared to traditional methods: “Earlier, farmers had to spend extra time and money on packing, yet the quality remained inconsistent. Now, with grading lines, the process is faster and more efficient, allowing farmers to make profits instead of losses. It also saves their time.”
He added, “Kashmir was lagging behind other parts of the country in grading facilities, which often resulted in apples not fetching good prices. Now, that gap is closing, and new employment opportunities are emerging for locals.”
A local farmer called for adopting modern technology: “Farmers need to embrace modern techniques to compete with growers from other states. Grading lines are a significant step forward, and we are already witnessing their direct benefits,” he said.
Experts believe that beyond individual gains, these grading units will bolster the overall horticulture economy of Kashmir. By ensuring standardised packaging and quality, they can enhance the valley’s reputation in national and international markets, ultimately contributing to regional economic stability, they said.
