Good produce Will Lighten our burden,Say Farmers
TDD Correspondent
Jammu,TDD,Chestnut farmers in North Kashmir’s Bandipora are celebrating a bumper harvest of chestnuts that promises to uplift their lives and boost the local economy.
The improved produce in Wullar Lake of Bandipora has sparked hope among the residents, who rely heavily on agriculture for their sustenance.
“Last year, we faced a lot of challenges with the weather, and the crop wasn’t as good,” said Ghulam Nabi, a farmer from the area. “But this time, nature has been kind, and our hard work has paid off. This harvest will help us pay off debts and save for the future.”
Chestnuts, locally known as “Gae’er” are a key source of income for many families in Bandipora. This year’s yield has been described as one of the best in recent years. Improved farming practices have resulted in a higher quality crop, which is attracting good market prices.
“This crop means everything to us,” shared Shabir Ahmad, another local farmer. “The income will not only help us meet our household expenses but also allow us to invest in better tools and techniques for next year.”
Beyond individual households, the bumper crop is expected to have a broader economic impact on the region. Traders and middlemen are also benefiting from the increased supply, creating a ripple effect of prosperity.
Experts believe this year’s harvest highlights the potential of Bandipora’s agricultural sector. “If supported with better infrastructure, storage and market access, chestnut farming could become a major economic driver for the area,” said Abdul Rashid, a local agriculture official.
As the chestnuts are packed and shipped to markets across the valley, the smiles on farmers’ faces tell a story of resilience and hope—one chestnut at a time.(TDD)
