Bandipora, Oct 13: As winter begins to tighten its grip on Kashmir, farmers in Gurez Valley, located in North Kashmir’s Bandipora district, are turning to an age-old practice to ensure their survival through the freezing months.
Using a centuries-old technique, these farmers bury their freshly harvested potatoes deep beneath the earth to preserve their crop for use during the harshest of winters. This traditional method, passed down through generations, has proven to be a lifeline for Gurez residents, ensuring their food supply remains intact even when the valley is snowbound for months.
“Our ancestors taught us this technique. By burying potatoes beneath the frozen ground, we keep them fresh for months. It’s more than farming—it’s preserving our heritage,” said Ghulam Mohammad, a local farmer.
Similarly, Jameela Begum, another farmer, emphasized the importance of this method, stating, “Every potato we store represents our hard work. It’s a piece of our history, and we rely on this technique to sustain us through the toughest times.”
Gurez Valley, situated at an altitude of approximately 8,000 feet, produces around 15,000 tonnes of potatoes annually, significantly contributing to the agriculture of Jammu and Kashmir. The valley’s fertile soil and unique climate make it an ideal location for potato farming, despite extreme winter conditions. This traditional storage method is not exclusive to Gurez; it is also practiced in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, showcasing the resourcefulness of the people in this part of the world.
In 2023, the potato industry of Gurez gained notable attention when global food giant PepsiCo announced plans to purchase potatoes from the valley’s farmers. This move highlighted Gurez’s agricultural potential and its traditional farming techniques.
Tulail village, one of the most picturesque areas in Gurez, is at the heart of this venture, with nearly every household relying on potato farming for their livelihood.
The potential of Gurez’s potato farming industry became more apparent after the valley was opened to tourism in 2015. While visitors are drawn to its natural beauty, many also discover the valley’s thriving agricultural practices.
Despite being cut off from the rest of Kashmir for around six months each year, Gurez continues to play an important role in India’s potato production. However, the isolation during winter often leads to shortages of essential supplies, including medical resources, making the preservation of food like potatoes all the more vital for the residents of this border valley.
This ancient practice, blending tradition with necessity, continues to sustain the people of Gurez as they face the challenges of their remote and rugged environment.
