Stand with growers

Kashmir’s apple growers are once again facing a crisis, not due to weather or pests, but because of a crippling breakdown in logistics and support systems. With freight charges rising sharply and cold storage facilities filled to capacity, the Valley’s horticulture sector is under severe stress during peak harvest season. Apples are a lifeline for thousands of families in Jammu and Kashmir, contributing significantly to the region’s economy. But this year, soaring transportation costs have made it difficult for growers, especially small and marginal farmers to send their produce to outside markets. The cost of freight has become almost prohibitive, eating into already tight profit margins. At the same time, cold storage units across the Valley have reached full capacity. These facilities, essential for preserving apples until prices stabilize, are no longer an option for many growers. As a result, farmers are being forced to sell at distress prices or risk losing their harvest altogether. This dual crisis not only threatens farmers’ incomes but could have long-term consequences for the sector. The lack of infrastructure and timely government support may push many away from horticulture, a worrying trend for a region where apples are both economic backbone and cultural identity. The administration must act urgently. Subsidizing freight, increasing transport options, and exploring temporary storage solutions are immediate needs. Long-term solutions must focus on expanding cold storage capacity and improving logistical networks. Kashmir’s growers have shown resilience season after season. Now, it is the system’s turn to stand with them, not just in words, but in meaningful, timely action.