Kupwara, November 07, 2025In a remarkable agricultural success story from Jammu and Kashmir’s frontier district, the remote village of Hatchmarg in Kupwara has emerged as a thriving tomato production hub, thanks to the adoption of high-yielding hybrid varieties that have revolutionized farming practices and boosted local economies. Nestled near forest areas with fertile soil ideally suited for horticulture, Hatchmarg – once a quiet hamlet – now sees almost every household dedicated to tomato cultivation. Farmers here have shifted to hybrid seeds, producing organic-like tomatoes without chemical sprays or pesticides, yielding bumper crops that fetch premium prices in local markets.Local grower Tanveer Ahmad explained the transformation: “These hybrid varieties are disease-resistant and high-yielding, giving us fruits that are firm, juicy, and naturally grown. The proximity to forests ensures pure, chemical-free produce – everything is organic in practice.”
The village’s entire output is sold locally, but with increasing demand, farmers are calling for government intervention to establish cold storage facilities and fix genuine market rates to prevent exploitation by middlemen.This season, Hatchmarg’s fields are bursting with vibrant red hybrids, turning the village into a model of sustainable farming in north Kashmir. Experts attribute the success to varieties that thrive in the region’s cool climate, offering better shelf life and transport resilience.As hybrid adoption spreads, Hatchmarg exemplifies how modern seeds can empower rural communities, enhancing food security and incomes in challenging terrains. Authorities are urged to support with infrastructure to sustain this green revolution.
