Mumbai: Due to climate change, the production of apple and saffron, the main crops of Kashmir, is being adversely affected. Rainfall is decreasing in Kashmir due to climate change.
According to the data received, the production of saffron in Kashmir which was about 16 tonnes in 1997-98 has declined to only 3.48 tonnes in 2021-22. The amount of saffron cultivation also decreased from 5700 hectares to 3700 hectares.
Adequate rainfall is required for the saffron crop, but prolonged rains in summer lead to a decline in the crop. A similar situation is being seen in the apple crop.
Nearly 80 percent of India’s apple production is in Kashmir, but heat and early snowfall are affecting the crop. The size of apple market in Jammu and Kashmir is about Rs 8000 crore.
The recent heat has affected the color, size and overall development of apples, reducing their market value. Sources in the Horticulture Department said that the production of good quality apples is decreasing here.
Local traders in Kashmir believe that the worrying decline in rainfall indicates that climate change is having a serious impact on the Jammu and Kashmir region.