Why in news:
The almond harvest in Kashmir marks an important seasonal and cultural event, and this year’s bumper crop has brought smiles to farmers’ faces. Almond trees bloom in early spring, colouring the landscape in delicate shades of pink and white, which later turn green before the harvest in summer.
UPSC Relevance:
UPSC has been asking questions on major and minor crops.
PYQ:
Q: “The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. It requires at least 210 frost-free days and 50 to 100 centimeters of rainfall for its growth. A light well-drained soil capable of retaining moisture is ideally suited for the cultivation of the crop.” Which one of the following is that crop’?(2020)
A) Cotton
B) Jute
C) Sugarcane
D) Tea
About Almonds:
History:
- The ancestry of the almond is unknown, but almonds are thought to have originated in the Mediterranean area of Europe.
- The almond tree is a member of the rose family and is native to the Middle East.
Climate:
- It is a fruit tree that grows in warm areas and is very sensitive to humidity, so it is not very tolerant to cold and does not grow in humid climates.
- It responds very well to water shortages.
- it is able to grow in all types of soils, even those that are shallow and calcareous.
- They require temperatures between 25-30°C (77-86°F) for optimal photosynthetic activity.
Largest Producer in World:
- USA
India:
Crops:
| Crop | Major Regions in Kashmir | Features | Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| Almonds | Anantnag, Pulwama, Budgam, Baramulla | Small, sweet, high oil content | Imports, climate change, low-tech farming |
| Apples | Shopian, Baramulla | World-famous taste | Cold storage issues |
| Walnuts | Kupwara, Baramulla | High-quality shell & kernel | Export logistics |
| Saffron | Pampore (Pulwama) | GI tag, medicinal use | Declining cultivation |
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