‘High Density Plantation viable option to increase apple production’
By: Sameer Lone
Srinagar: In an effort to promote and give boost to different apple varieties in Kashmir, the government has come up with multiple schemes for the growers to make them progressive farmers.
The experts in the Horticulture department are of the opinion that promoting High Density Apple Plantation is the only viable option to increase apple production in Kashmir.
“Shifting to High Density Plantation is the only viable alternative to increase the production and productivity,” said Director General Horticulture, Aijaz Ahmed Bhat.
According to officials in the Directorate of Horticulture, the department is aiming to reach as wider and farther as possible in Kashmir division to promote apple farming, especially the high density, which is the market now.
“High density comes up with varieties۔ It gives more yield in less time۔ It is the time for the farmers to move away from the traditional apple crop,” they said.
“Soon after the winter season ends, the time for plantation will start. So we are making utmost use of the time to hold awareness camps and inform farmers about various high density apple varieties available,” said an official.
According to Chief Horticulture Officer (CHO) Kulgam, Dr Iqbal Baba said the newly launched Modify High Density Scheme is quite suitable particularly for small and marginal farmers.
“Growers should reach out to offices to avail benefits of multiple schemes,” he said.
With an aim to make growers as progressive farmers, the department has come up with numerous central and UT sponsored schemes like MIDH, PMDP, SMAM, PMKSY, CAPEX etc. “We urge farmers to come forward and avail the benefits under these schemes,” said the DG Horticulture.
