Fruit sales in Kashmir have reached a staggering Rs 167 crore during the ongoing month of Ramazan, with watermelon retaining its position as the top-selling fruit, according to market insiders and traders. The holy month has driven unprecedented demand, particularly for watermelons and dates, highlighting their prominence in the region’s fasting traditions.
Bashir Ahmad Basheer, Chairman of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union, revealed that watermelon sales alone contributed Rs 72 crore to the total figure. “This Ramazan, we’ve seen 60 trucks of watermelons arriving daily at Srinagar’s Parimpora Fruit Mandi,” he said, noting a significant uptick from last year’s numbers. Sourced primarily from Punjab, the fruit has become a go-to choice for breaking the fast, valued for its juiciness and hydration benefits in the crisp Kashmiri spring.
Dates, a traditional staple of Ramazan, added Rs 30 crore to the sales tally, reinforcing their symbolic importance during Iftar meals. Together, these two fruits have dominated the market, though other imported varieties are also gaining traction. “Kashmiris are increasingly favoring fruits from outside the region over local produce,” Basheer observed, a trend that has reshaped the Valley’s fruit economy this season.
The surge in watermelon demand began with five to six trolleys arriving daily at the season’s start, escalating as Ramazan progressed. Traders anticipate an even sharper rise in the coming days as families stock up for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. Despite occasional concerns about artificial ripening, Basheer emphasized improvements in supply chains. “Modern agricultural techniques and better transportation mean quality fruits are available year-round, and most are naturally ripened,” he assured.
This year’s Rs 167 crore fruit market haul underscores the economic buzz in Kashmir during Ramazan, even as local growers face stiff competition from external suppliers. Earlier this season, apple exports from the Valley hit Rs 12,000 crore, yet the spotlight during Ramazan remains on watermelons and dates. The reliance on imported fruits has sparked discussions among growers about boosting local production to reclaim market share.
As the holy month nears its end, Kashmir’s fruit trade reflects a blend of cultural heritage and economic adaptation. With watermelon reigning supreme, the region’s markets are poised for a strong finish to Ramazan, setting the stage for a vibrant Eid season.