Bandipora, December 13,2025- Kashmir:In Nesbal, Bandipora, traditional paddy fields have been ingeniously transformed into lotus stem (nadru) harvesting wetlands, offering local farmers a lucrative seasonal crop. Farmers say that the nadru grown here is of superior quality and more flavourful compared to other regions of Kashmir.
Despite the biting winter cold, local farmers wade chest-deep into freezing waters to extract the prized lotus stems. The nadru harvest, though labor-intensive, sustains many families in the area, providing both livelihood and a source of local pride.
Officials note that this adaptation from paddy cultivation to lotus stem farming demonstrates the region’s innovative agricultural practices. “Even in harsh winter conditions, our farmers continue to uphold tradition and ensure a high-quality harvest,” said a local farmer.
The nadru from Bandipora is highly sought after in markets across Kashmir, and this seasonal harvest plays a crucial role in the local economy, supporting families and promoting agro-tourism in the region.
