Rapid conversion of paddy fields raises food security concerns in Kashmir

Srinagar, Apr 16: The rapid conversion of agricultural land into horticulture across Kashmir is emerging as a serious concern, with experts warning that the trend could leave the Valley heavily, if not entirely, dependent on other states for its staple food, particularly rice.
A directorate-level retired officer of the Agriculture Department said that Kashmir is already facing a food deficit of nearly 40-50 per cent. He said the steady shift from paddy cultivation to high-density apple orchards over the past five to six years has only deepened this dependence.
“Thousands of hectares of fertile paddy land have been converted into orchards, primarily for apple cultivation. While this transition has improved the income of some farmers, it has significantly reduced local rice production,” the officer said.
He cautioned that the Valley, once known for its self-sufficiency in rice, is now at a critical juncture. “If this trend continues unchecked, Kashmir could become 100 per cent reliant on other states for rice in the coming years,” he warned.
The shift toward horticulture, especially high-density apple farming, has been largely driven by better financial returns compared to traditional paddy cultivation. Farmers are increasingly opting for orchards as they promise higher profits and relatively stable market demand.
However, experts believe this economic gain comes at a long-term cost.
“Horticulture undoubtedly boosts farmers’ incomes, but it also exposes the region to external risks. Any disruption in supply chains—whether due to natural disasters, transport issues, or political instability—can trigger food shortages,” said an official of the Agriculture department, wishing anonymity.
Historically, districts like Kulgam and Pulwama have been regarded as the rice bowls of Kashmir. But over the past two decades, these areas have witnessed a sharp decline in paddy cultivation.
“In Kulgam alone, more than 50 per cent of paddy fields have been lost to horticulture and urban expansion,” the official said.
Pulwama presents an even starker picture. “There were areas where orchards were almost non-existent a few years ago. Today, after the introduction of high-density apple varieties, nearly 70 percent of paddy land has been converted. If this demand continues, we may not see any paddy fields left in certain belts,” he added.
Official figures underline the alarming trend. The area under paddy cultivation in Jammu and Kashmir has declined from 1,62,309 hectares in 2012–13 to 1,34,067 hectares in 2021–22—a drop of around 17 per cent.
Experts believe that the current decline could be even steeper, given the pace of land conversion in recent years.
Over the past decade alone, nearly 35,000 hectares of paddy land have reportedly been converted to non-agricultural uses, including horticulture and construction.
At present, nearly 60–70 per cent of the rice consumed in Kashmir is sourced from outside, mainly from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Supplies are routed through the Food Corporation of India (FCI) as well as private traders.
Officials warned that such heavy reliance on external sources makes the region vulnerable. “In case of any disruption, the Valley could face serious food security challenges,” they said.
Despite the alarming trend, officials pointed out that there is currently no strict legal framework to prevent the conversion of paddy land into other uses. “There is an urgent need for policy intervention. If corrective measures are not taken now, the situation may soon reach a point of no return,” they cautioned.
Experts have called for a balanced approach that safeguards food security while also supporting farmers’ incomes. (KNO)