Srinagar, March 15: The Jammu and Kashmir government has affirmed that several villages in the Uri Constituency, including Salambad, Basgran, Kamalkote, and Sultandaki, are well-suited for olive plantations.
In response to an Un-Starred Assembly Question by Dr. Sajad Shafi, the government provided details about initiatives to enhance olive and walnut cultivation in the region.
According to the government, the Department of Horticulture has already established an olive fruit plant orchard and nursery in Salamabad, Uri.
It said that the nursery is actively cultivating olive plants and supplying them to local growers to promote olive orchard development. The initiative aims to boost olive production in the region by leveraging its favorable climatic conditions.
Uri and other areas in Baramulla district are also well-known for walnut production, making them significant contributors to J&K’s horticultural economy.
To further encourage walnut cultivation, especially hybrid walnut trees, the government said it has undertaken several measures. Awareness programs are being conducted to educate farmers about the benefits of hybrid walnut varieties, which offer improved yield and quality.
“Under the Area Expansion Scheme, financial assistance has been extended to local farmers to support walnut cultivation. Since 2022-23, an amount of Rs. 2.76 lakh has been provided to 23 farmers, covering an area of 87 kanals. Additionally, farmers are given the option to independently source hybrid walnut varieties from sellers by making full payment,” it said.
The government further said that these efforts are part of the broader agricultural and horticultural development initiatives undertaken by the government to enhance productivity and provide economic opportunities to local farmers.
“The department remains committed to strengthening the horticulture sector in Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring sustainable growth and enhanced livelihood opportunities for growers,” it said.
