MAY 23: In a focused meeting held recently, the Dry Fruit Association of Kupwara engaged with Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary to discuss pressing concerns affecting Kashmir’s walnut sector. The delegation emphasized challenges related to the Goods and Services Tax (GST), inadequate market infrastructure, and the need for innovation in walnut farming practices.
The walnut industry remains a cornerstone of Kashmir’s economy, providing livelihood to thousands of farmers and contributing significantly to the region’s agrarian landscape. However, stakeholders have faced persistent difficulties in navigating tax structures, insufficient storage and marketing facilities, and limited access to modern agricultural technology.
The Dry Fruit Association representatives highlighted the adverse impact of the current GST regime on profitability and competitiveness. They urged the government to consider phased relief measures or rationalization to alleviate financial burdens on walnut producers and traders.
In addition to fiscal concerns, the delegation underscored the necessity of upgrading market infrastructure, including the establishment of modern warehouses, cold storage units, and streamlined supply chains to reduce post-harvest losses. They also stressed the importance of promoting innovation in walnut cultivation through scientific farming techniques, better pest management, and quality improvement measures.
Responding to these concerns, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary assured the association of the government’s commitment to reviving and strengthening Kashmir’s walnut industry. He outlined plans for a phased redressal approach that would tackle taxation issues, improve infrastructure, and introduce technological support tailored to local needs.
Choudhary emphasized that the government aims to create a sustainable ecosystem for walnut farmers by facilitating access to cutting-edge agricultural technologies and expert guidance. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to link farmers directly with markets to enhance their income and reduce dependency on intermediaries.
The Deputy Chief Minister’s assurance was welcomed by the Dry Fruit Association, which expressed optimism that collaborative efforts between the government and stakeholders would lead to the revival of the once-thriving walnut industry in Kashmir.
This dialogue marks an important step toward addressing the challenges faced by the dry fruit sector and underscores the government’s focus on agricultural development and rural prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir.