Udhampur, March 22, 2025 – A strawberry revolution is underway in the Udhampur district of Jammu & Kashmir, where farmers in Thalora and Chai villages are reaping the rewards of a booming strawberry production season. Visuals from the fields show local farmers busy harvesting ripe, red strawberries, a crop that has surged in popularity thanks to rising demand, better market prices, and supportive schemes from the central government.
In Thalora village, farmers like Vinod Sharma are celebrating the success of their strawberry farms. What began as small-scale cultivation has grown into thriving fields, fueled by the profitability of the fruit. “The demand for strawberries has increased, and the prices we get now make it worth the effort,” Sharma said while inspecting his harvest. Similarly, in Chai village, growers have found strawberry farming to be a game-changer, citing its relative ease compared to traditional crops like wheat or maize.
The surge in strawberry production owes much to favorable market conditions, with buyers in nearby cities and beyond eagerly snapping up the fresh produce. Local markets in Udhampur and Jammu have reported a steady rise in strawberry sales, while some farmers are even exploring direct-to-consumer models to maximize profits. This economic boost is transforming the agricultural landscape of the district, offering farmers a sustainable and lucrative alternative.
Central government schemes have been instrumental in this agricultural shift. Subsidies for planting materials, irrigation support, and training programs have made strawberry cultivation more accessible and less labor-intensive. “The government’s help with drip irrigation and quality saplings has made farming strawberries easier and more productive,” noted a farmer from Chai village. These initiatives have not only encouraged more farmers to take up strawberry cultivation but also ensured higher yields and better-quality fruit.