Revitalising Walnut Cultivation in Srinagar

The horticultural sector in Srinagar is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by efforts to modernise and optimise local farming practices. Led by Iftikhar Hussain, the district horticulture officer, these initiatives aim to enhance the quality and yield of walnut and other fruit trees in the region. A primary goal of this project is to improve the propagation of high-quality walnut varieties, addressing longstanding challenges in the walnut farming industry, such as a lack of uniformity in size and color. Historically, walnuts grown in remote areas were often large but inconsistent, which made them less marketable. With the introduction of scientifically developed varieties, the project is focused on producing uniform walnuts that meet market expectations for size, color, and taste.

The core of this initiative lies in advanced grafting and budding techniques. While these processes were traditionally done in open fields with low success rates, they are now carried out in controlled high-tech greenhouses. These greenhouses use automated systems to regulate temperature and humidity, ensuring optimal growing conditions for plants. By controlling these environmental factors, the success rate of grafting has significantly improved, resulting in healthier and more productive plants. This approach also reduces the costs associated with failed grafts, which was a common problem with the older open-field methods.

In addition to improving the quality of walnuts, the project also aims to expand walnut cultivation in the region. With the introduction of new, scientifically developed rootstocks, such as the iron city root-to-alert plants, the initiative seeks to increase the production of walnuts and other fruit trees. These rootstocks are better suited to the local climate and soil conditions, enhancing plant resilience and productivity. The department has already cultivated around two lakh plants, many of which are walnuts, using grafting and budding techniques to ensure the desired traits of size and uniformity. In the past, rootstocks were sourced from outside the region, at high cost. However, with the establishment of a local rootstock bank, the department is now able to produce its own rootstocks, lowering costs and reducing dependency on external suppliers.

An important aspect of this initiative is its emphasis on education and practical demonstrations. The department regularly organises visits to showcase the latest horticultural techniques, allowing local farmers to see firsthand how grafting, budding, and plant care can be applied successfully. Farmers from various districts in Srinagar are encouraged to participate, where they are given the opportunity to learn about modern techniques and gain confidence in adopting them on their own farms. These practical demonstrations help to build trust in the new methods and make it easier for farmers to incorporate them into their daily practices.

The project’s long-term vision is to create a self-sustaining system where farmers can independently produce high-quality fruit crops with minimal external support. By focusing on the production of local rootstocks and developing superior plant varieties, the department aims to strengthen the horticultural industry in Srinagar and make it more resilient to external market fluctuations. Through continuous education and hands-on training, the project is laying the foundation for a more sustainable and prosperous future for walnut and fruit tree cultivation in the region.

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