Nomadic families in Kashmir begin returning to plains as temps drop

  • Arif Rashid By Arif Rashid
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  • 25 Sep 2025

Srinagar, Sept 25: Nomadic families who migrated to the highland pastures of Kashmir in June, along with their families and livestock, are now returning to the plains as night temperatures in the mountainous regions have started to fall. Sajad Ahmad Choudhary, a nomadic herder, told Rising Kashmir that the migration back to their homes has begun since September 15, as the climate conditions in the highlands have changed. He said many other shepherds and nomadic families will also return as the weather becomes colder in the highlands. "From May to September, they traditionally migrate from the plains to the highland pastures. During this period, children attend seasonal schools to ensure their education continues uninterrupted. Doctors from the Sheep and Animal Husbandry Department are deployed in these pastures to provide medical care to the livestock," Choudhary said. He added that the livestock feed on fresh grass, which is highly beneficial for their health and well-being, and that this migration is essential for the livelihood of farmers and nomadic families, who depend heavily on their animals for income. "Millions of people like me rely on our livestock for their livelihood. If we abandon this practice, the Kashmir Valley might face shortages of milk, curd, and meat in the markets. We depend on the people, and they depend on us," he said. Choudhary further said that the migration enhances milk and meat production, benefiting the local economy. Many educated individuals have established sheep and cattle farms in their areas, creating employment opportunities for unemployed youth who work on these farms. These youths are also actively participating in this seasonal migration period.        

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