In Kashmir, the first snowfall gives the people a chance to make new memories with their loved ones. The first snow fall in Kashmir, Nov-Sheen (nov-new, sheen-snow) is a festival celebrated in Kashmir; it is that time of the year when all of the Kashmiris come together and celebrate it. The first snowfall doesn’t just bring people together but it also enhances the beauty of Kashmir. The serene Kashmir becomes a tourist destination. It isn’t just a breathtaking sight but also plays a crucial role in the region’s ecology, economy and also economic.
Ecological benefits
Snow also facilitates us by providing us with fresh water, thus it is one of the fresh water source of our country. Snow-covered mountains in Kashmir, such as Lidder, Shaliganag, and Doodhganga, have glaciers that are a vital source of water. Pahalgam and Gulmarg are internationally renowned tourist destinations, with their allure largely attributed to the captivating snowfall that transforms these areas into winter wonderlands. These two locations also serve as significant catchments for the River Jhelum, which spans an area of 17,622 km², covering approximately 47% of the Kashmir Valley. Notably, this region is home to 91% of the valley’s urban population.
The River Jhelum is the primary source of water for both domestic and industrial purposes, and its flow is predominantly sustained by snow and glacier melts. The River Jhelum, which is vital for irrigation, hydropower, and domestic use, receives around 66% of its water from snowmelt. This slow release of water helps maintain the ecological balance of the region’s wetlands, rivers, and forests. Studies indicate that the contribution of snow and glacier melt to the river’s flow varies throughout the year: approximately 33% in early spring, 73% in late spring, and 68% during the summer months. This water is crucial not only for irrigation but also for generating hydropower, making the river an essential resource for the region’s economy.
Snow’s thermal properties also have significant implications for climate regulation. Acting as an insulating blanket, snow helps maintain temperature stability beneath its surface. For instance, just 30 centimeters (about one foot) of snow can protect the soil and its organisms from temperature fluctuations in the air above. The cold, moist surface of snow plays a key role in regulating the flow of heat and moisture between the ground and the atmosphere. By insulating the ground, snow helps trap heat and prevents moisture from evaporating into the air. Additionally, snow cover slows the formation of ice on top of other frozen surfaces, such as permafrost or river and sea ice.
When soil freezes, it traps gases such as carbon and methane, preventing chemical exchanges between the ground and the atmosphere. The frozen state of the soil also restricts the movement of water both within the soil and on its surface. As the soil becomes sealed, it absorbs less liquid water, resulting in increased surface runoff. Furthermore, once the soil is frozen, the insulating properties of snow can delay the melting process. Understanding whether the soil is frozen and when it might thaw is crucial for estimating the amount of water available during the spring and summer melt.
Snow provides a stable and protected environment for a variety of species, including migratory birds, mountain plants, and mammals like the Himalayan brown bear. Many species in Kashmir rely on snow-covered habitats for hibernation or shelter during the harsh winter months. Moreover, snow reflects sunlight, which helps maintain cooler temperatures, regulating the local climate and preserving the unique alpine ecosystem in the region.
Economical benefits
Snow contributes significantly to Kashmir’s agricultural sector. The melt water from snow helps irrigate fields, particularly for crops such as rice, saffron, and various fruits like apples, cherries, and almonds. This snowmelt ensures that the crops receive a steady supply of water during the warmer months, supporting food production and the livelihood of farmers. Crops such as rice, saffron, apples, and vegetables depend on this melt water for growth. Rice cultivation, which is a staple crop in Kashmir, requires large amounts of water during its growing season, and the snowmelt ensures that farmers have a steady water supply during critical planting and harvesting periods.
The gradual melt of snow ensures a steady supply of water throughout the spring and summer, reducing the risk of drought and water shortages during warmer months. This slow release of water allows for more efficient and sustained irrigation, contributing to better crop yields and overall agricultural productivity.
Also, Snowmelt is a critical resource for hydropower generation. Rivers fed by snowmelt, particularly the Jhelum, are harnessed to generate electricity, providing energy for both domestic consumption and industries. This energy is vital for sustaining local economies and infrastructure. The majority of the river flow in Kashmir, particularly in the River Jhelum and its tributaries, is derived from snowmelt.
Snow contributes about 66% of the water flow in these rivers, which is essential for generating hydropower. As the snow accumulates in the winter months and melts in spring and summer, it feeds the rivers and helps maintain a consistent water flow, crucial for the operation of hydropower plants. Hydropower stations in Kashmir, like those on the Jhelum River, depend on the seasonal snowmelt for their water supply. The timing and volume of snowmelt significantly influence the amount of water available for energy production.
Snowmelt-driven water flows peak in late spring and early summer, providing a substantial input of water that is used for electricity generation during these high-demand months. Hydropower is a significant contributor to Kashmir’s economy. The electricity generated from snowmelt supports local industries, reduces reliance on external energy sources, and creates a source of revenue for the state. The energy produced can be used for domestic consumption, as well as for export to other regions, further boosting the local economy. The availability of hydropower enables the development of various industries, including manufacturing, agriculture (irrigation and processing), and tourism. The consistent supply of energy encourages industrial growth and helps improve the quality of life in both rural and urban areas. Additionally, hydropower plants themselves create jobs and contribute to the local economy.
Kashmir’s snowy landscapes are a major attraction for tourists from around the world. Winter tourism, particularly in places like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, generates significant revenue. Activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snow trekking are popular, providing jobs and supporting local businesses in hospitality, transportation, and retail. Kashmir’s snow-covered landscapes, particularly in places like Gulmarg, have become famous for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Gulmarg is one of the top skiing destinations in Asia, attracting tourists from all over the world.
The thick snow cover and scenic views create the ideal conditions for these activities, driving a substantial inflow of tourists during the winter months. In addition to skiing, snow trekking and snowshoeing are popular activities for adventure enthusiasts. Areas like Sonmarg, Pahalgam, and Kashmir Valley offer beautiful trails for snow trekking, attracting nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers. These activities generate revenue through bookings, equipment rentals, and local guides, boosting the local economy.
The cold, snowy winter encourages the production of traditional Kashmiri crafts like woolens (Pashmina shawls), carpets, and handcrafted items. Snow also plays a role in the traditional lifestyle, with winter being the time for family gatherings and the production of artisanal foods and handicrafts that attract both local and international markets.
The demand for Kashmiri handicrafts like Pashmina shawls, woolen carpets, papier-mâché products, and walnut wood carvings increases during winter. Tourists often purchase these as souvenirs or warm clothing items. Winter tourism emphasizes the need for traditional warm garments and blankets, promoting these crafts further.
Cultural benefits
Snow significantly enhances the cultural economy of Kashmir by accentuating its unique traditions, fostering cultural tourism, and promoting winter-related cultural practices. Snowfall plays a vital role in preserving and promoting traditional Kashmiri practices tied to winter culture. The heavy snowfall in Kashmir brings freezing temperatures, making the kangri, a portable firepot; a staple for households is hugely advocated. This increased reliance on kangris, directly boosts their production and sales. During snowy winters, kangris are an essential item, especially for people who work outdoors or need mobility while staying warm. Tourists visiting snow-covered Kashmir often buy kangris as cultural souvenirs, generating additional revenue for artisans
Kangri making is a traditional craft passed down through generations in Kashmir. The demand during winter provides economic sustenance or nourishment for these artisans. Kangri making is primarily done in rural areas, offering a source of livelihood during the winter season when agricultural activities slow down. The demand ensures the survival of this unique art form, as it requires specific skills to weave wicker around a clay pot. Snow creates several avenues for economic growth through kangri craftsmanship.
High-quality kangris could be marketed internationally as traditional Kashmiri handicrafts. Workshops and hands-on kangri weaving experiences for tourists can provide a new revenue stream. The heavy snowfall in Kashmir brings frigid temperatures, so making the pheran, a traditional woolen cloak, an essential garment for warmth and comfort is heavily in demand. The pheran is uniquely suited for Kashmir’s snowy climate. Its loose design allows it to trap warmth and accommodate a kangri (firepot), making it indispensable during winter months.
The cold season boosts the demand for pherans among locals and tourists, directly benefiting local weavers, tailors, and textile markets. Snow plays a significant role in enhancing food tourism in Kashmir, contributing to the region’s cultural economy by drawing attention to its rich culinary traditions and winter-specific dishes.
The cold, snowy weather encourages locals and tourists seek out, traditional Kashmiri dishes that provide warmth and energy. Snow increases the demand for harissa; a slow-cooked spiced meat porridge, which is a winter delicacy. Tourists flock to Kashmiri towns and cities specifically to taste this authentic dish. Traditional drinks like noon chai (salted pink tea) and kahwa (saffron-infused green tea) are immensely popular during the snowy season, with local cafes and tea stalls seeing increased business. Snow attracts tourists who want to experience Kashmiri food in its cultural and natural context. Many eateries capitalize on snowy winters to offer special winter menus featuring Kashmiri staples like rogan josh, yakhni, and gushtaba, alongside seasonal breads like tsot and kulchas.Luxury resorts in snow-covered destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam organize special food experiences, including outdoor feasts with traditional Kashmiri dishes.
Snow profoundly impacts Kashmir’s economy in terms of art and media, leveraging the region’s cultural heritage and natural beauty to generate economic opportunities. The snowy landscape inspires Kashmiri artists to create works that reflect the beauty and culture of the region. Snowy scenes are frequently depicted in Kashmiri papier-mâché, embroidery, and paintings, adding seasonal relevance to these art forms. This increases their appeal among tourists and collectors. Local painters and photographers capture the snow-covered vistas, traditional snow-related activities, and winter lifestyles, creating works that are sold as souvenirs or displayed in galleries. Snow helps fuel creative industries by providing a thematic backdrop for content creation.
Snow-covered Kashmir serves as a filming destination for movies, TV shows, and documentaries. This generates income for local businesses, including production crews, hotels, and transport providers. Traditional Kashmiri music videos and contemporary productions often feature snow-covered locations, blending cultural expression with economic activity. The snowy environment serves as a powerful marketing tool for Kashmir’s culture through digital and social media. Snow-covered landscapes are frequently featured in travel blogs and vlogs, promoting Kashmir’s cultural and artistic heritage to global audiences.
Conclusion
So, snowfall isn’t just a sentimental emotion, for all of us. But it is also helps our country ecologically, economically and culturally. It is an amalgamation of optimism and equanimity. This day also symbolizes the beauty which Kashmir holds. It adorns Kashmir into a winter wonderland where everyone wishes to visit. It reminds everyone to be sanguine and optimistic about the future, as it brings tons of happy moments along with it. It demolishes all altercations among us and cajoles us to be grateful to each other and also promotes togetherness. So, this Nov-sheen lets be thankful for each other and embark a new journey.
“Silently, like thoughts that come and go, the snowflakes fall, each one a gem.” William Hamilton Gibson
(The Author can be reached at: Au@navyak07 on X)
