Sajid Raina
Srinagar, Mar 15: Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture sector continues to expand, with Anantnag emerging as the largest horticulture-producing district in 2023-24, covering 32,156 hectares—9.33% of the total horticulture area in the Union Territory, according to data from the government.
Following Anantnag, Baramulla (30,398 ha, 8.82%) and Kupwara (29,167 ha, 8.46%) are among the largest contributors to fruit and dry fruit cultivation. Pulwama (26,463 ha, 7.68%), Shopian (26,242 ha, 7.61%), and Kulgam (23,276 ha, 6.75%) also play significant roles in horticultural production, the data reveals.
On the other end, Srinagar has the lowest horticulture area, with just 3,298 hectares (0.96%), followed by Samba (5,653 ha, 1.64%) and Bandipora (6,849 ha, 1.99%). Other districts with relatively lower horticulture coverage include Reasi (9,053 ha, 2.63%) and Kishtwar (9,814 ha, 2.85%).
According to the data, the UT has a total horticulture area of 3,44,696 hectares. Fresh fruits cover 2,52,257 hectares (73.2%), while dry fruits account for 92,438 hectares (26.8%).
Kashmir Valley dominates horticulture, with districts like Anantnag, Baramulla and Kupwara leading the sector. Meanwhile, Jammu region contributes through mango, ber and citrus fruit production. (KNO)
