Kashmir, known as the “Paradise on Earth,” is equally rich in agricultural diversity. The valley’s cool climate, fertile alluvial soil, abundance of freshwater and centuries-old traditions have shaped a unique agricultural system that blends traditional knowledge with modern techniques. Farming practices in Kashmir are deeply connected to its culture and economy – nearly 70% of the population depends on agriculture or allied activities. Over the years, the region has developed specialised farming systems such as Saffron cultivation, Apple orcharding, Paddy farming and high-quality vegetable production. These agriculture-based livelihoods not only support local households but also contribute
significantly to India’s agricultural exports.
The geography of Kashmir with its temperate climate and varied elevations, makes it ideal for growing a wide range of crops that cannot be cultivated in most other parts of India. Cold winters and mild summers allow for the cultivation of Apples, Cherries, Pears, Walnuts and Saffron products for which the valley is internationally known. The climatic conditions also reduce the incidence of many pests, allowing farmers to follow relatively low-chemical farming practices. The snowmelt from the Himalayas ensures perennial streams and rivers, making irrigation accessible in most parts of the valley. For generations, Kashmiri farmers have relied on indigenous knowledge and techniques suited to the local environment.
Rice is a staple food and the most widely grown crop in Kashmir. Farmers typically adopt the transplanting method, where young seedlings are grown in nurseries and later transplanted into flooded fields. Traditionally, wooden ploughs pulled by oxen were used for tilling, although mechanised ploughs and Tractors are becoming common. Farmers depend heavily on irrigation channels called Kul or Zab, which have been part of village infrastructure for centuries. Harvesting is mostly done manually, preserving grain quality. In hilly areas where terraced fields are common, maize is grown using the broadcast sowing method. This crop provides fodder for livestock and is often intercropped with beans and vegetables, which increases soil fertility and yields.
Traditional kitchen gardening (locally called “kitchen wujur”) is an important aspect of rural life. Farmers grow Collards, Turnips, Pumpkin and Beans. Many households also use the ’floating gardens’ technique in Dal Lake and Wular Lake, where vegetables are grown on reed-based beds that float on the water surface. One of the most celebrated farming practices in Kashmir is saffron cultivation, especially in Pampore, known as the “Saffron Town of India’’.” Saffron farming is labour-intensive and follows traditional methods passed down generations. Farmers sow corms in well-drained karewa soils, which are rich in minerals. No chemical fertilizers are used; instead, organic manure retains soil purity. The flowers bloom in late October and harvesting is done manually at dawn to preserve the deep colour and aroma of the stigmas. Kashmiri saffron, known for its high crocin content, is considered among the best in the world.
Horticulture is the backbone of Kashmir’s agricultural economy. Apple orchards cover thousands of hectares and provide livelihood to lakhs of people. Farmers follow systematic pruning, irrigation, and pest-control practices. The valley’s high altitude and cool climate allow for natural cold storage, extending the shelf life of fruits. Traditional wooden crates are now being replaced by modern packaging materials to reduce post-harvest losses.
Kashmir also produces Walnuts, Almonds, Cherries, Apricots and Pears. Walnut cultivation, especially, is almost entirely organic, as trees grow naturally in hilly terrains without the need for chemical fertilizers. Almost every farming household keeps livestock – Cows, Sheep, Goats or Poultry. Mixed farming supports rural families in several ways as under, Livestock provides diary, meat and wool, Organic manure from animals enriches soil fertility. Sheep repairing supports the famous Kashmiri wool industry including pashmina.
Kashmir’s irrigation network is centuries old. Besides natural streams, farmers depend on:
Kuls (gravity-based channels) leading water to paddy fields. Lift irrigation in areas near rivers. Spring irrigation, where natural springs provide a steady water supply. Modern initiatives, such as drip and sprinkler irrigation, are gradually being adopted, especially in orchards. Many farmers in Kashmir follow organic or semi-organic farming, using traditional compost, green manure and minimal chemical inputs. The cooler climate naturally restrains pest populations, reducing dependency on pesticides. In recent years, there has been an increasing preference for integrated pest management (IPM) and soil health card-based nutrient management.Despite its strengths, agriculture in Kashmir faces several challenges, Climate change, leading to erratic snowfall, unpredictable rains and reduced water availability, Land fragmentation due to inheritance patterns, Limited mechanization in hilly areas. Transportation issues affecting export of perishable fruits.
To address these challenges, various initiatives are being promoted, High-density Apple plantation for higher productivity. Cold storage units and controlled atmosphere facilities.
Saffron Mission for quality enhancement and GI tagging. Training programs on drip irrigation, soil testing and organic certification.
Farming practices in Kashmir are a blend of tradition, skill, and natural advantage. From saffron fields to apple orchards and terraced maize farms to floating vegetable beds, the region’s agricultural landscape is rich and diverse. While challenges remain, the shift toward modern technologies and sustainable methods is helping farmers secure better incomes and preserve the valley’s unique agricultural heritage. As Kashmir continues to develop its farming capabilities, it stands poised to strengthen its position as one of India’s most important horticultural and specialty-crop regions.