Pulwama, April 07, 2025 – Kashmir’s apple growers are experiencing a wave of optimism this season as demand for their fruit surges across India and beyond. After years of unpredictable weather and market challenges, orchardists in the valley are seeing a much-needed boost, with apples stored in Controlled Atmosphere units fetching handsome returns and clearing stocks earlier than anticipated.
The region, renowned for its crisp, flavourful apples, has faced its share of struggles—erratic spring rains, prolonged dry spells, and competition from imported varieties. Last year, nearly 20% of stored apples remained unsold due to sluggish demand. This season, however, tells a different story. Growers report that over 60% of CA storage units in key districts like Pulwama and Shopian have already been emptied, driven by a spike in orders from major markets in Delhi, Mumbai, and even international buyers in Bangladesh and Nepal.
“We’re seeing prices we haven’t seen in years,” said an apple grower from Shopian, a hub of Kashmir’s apple production. “The demand is strong, and it’s encouraging us to release stocks sooner.” A 10 kg box of the prized Delicious variety is reportedly selling for Rs 950 to Rs 1,000, a significant uptick from last season’s rates.
Kashmir hosts around 50 CA storage units, primarily concentrated in the SIDCO Lassipora industrial estate, with a total capacity nearing 3 lakh metric tonnes. These facilities have become a lifeline for growers, allowing them to preserve apples and sell when market conditions improve.
The horticulture sector, which supports over 7 lakh families in Jammu and Kashmir, remains the backbone of the region’s economy. Annual apple production typically hovers between 20 to 25 lakh metric tonnes, though recent climate shifts have occasionally dented yields. Despite these hurdles, the current season’s success is a glimmer of hope. Experts attribute the demand rise to improved transportation networks, like upgraded national highways, and a growing preference for Kashmir’s high-quality apples over foreign imports.
As the season progresses, Kashmir’s apple industry stands at a pivotal moment. With demand on the rise, growers are hopeful that 2025 will mark a turning point for the valley’s iconic fruit.