Pulwama, J & K : Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP-18), organized a Field Day on “Cluster Orcharding: Enabling Automation in Orchard Operations” at the five Hectare Model Cluster Apple Orchard established at Junglenad, Awantipora.

Developed with the participation of 58 apple growers from four adjoining villages, the Model Cluster Orchard has emerged as a successful demonstration of scientific orchard management, mechanization and collective farming.

The programme was graced by Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai Hon’ble Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K, who symbolically harvested the season’s first apple crop and interacted with the participating growers.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Ganai described the initiative as a transformative model for apple cultivation in Jammu & Kashmir. He highlighted that the cluster orchard has demonstrated around 80% reduction in pesticide use, 80% reduction in labour drudgery through mechanization, and the potential to produce up to 95% A grade apples. He also noted that the cluster approach maximizes cultivable land by eliminating unnecessary boundaries and internal pathways.

The Vice Chancellor emphasized that cluster-based orcharding can significantly enhance productivity, improve fruit quality reduce production costs and increase farmers’ income. He urged the growers to establish a Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) to strengthen collective marketing, value addition and access to government support.

He also directed the Principal Investigator, Dr. Tariq Rasool, to prepare a comprehensive policy framework outlining future strategies for the horticulture sector, aimed at making horticulture in Jammu & Kashmir more technology driven sustainable and profitable for growers.

Speaking on behalf of the growers, Mr. Parvez Ahmad Shah thanked the Government and SKUAST-K for establishing the model orchard and expressed confidence that it would generate an income of ₹70 lakh to ₹1 crore within first year of its development making it a replicable model for apple growers across the Valley.

Despite inclement weather, the programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from apple growers, scientists, extension specialists, officers of the Department of Horticulture and other stakeholders.

Report By – Mudasir Maqbool