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Oilseed cultivation expands across Kashmir; farmers report higher returns, growth

  • Aatif Qayoom By Aatif Qayoom
  • Comments 0
  • 04 Apr 2026

Srinagar, Apr 03: Oilseed cultivation has recorded a sharp rise across Kashmir, with the cultivated area increasing by 30,000 hectares over the past two years.

The total area under the crop has grown from 1.10 lakh hectares in 2023 to 1.40 lakh hectares in 2025. Production has also seen a significant increase, reaching around 143,476.9 metric tonnes this year, up from 107,476.9 metric tonnes in 2024.

Officials attributed the growth to improved seed varieties, better extension services, and sustained government support. The agriculture department has intensified field-level outreach to ensure farmers receive timely inputs and technical guidance.

In north Kashmir’s Handwara sub-division, oilseed cultivation has covered between 2,500 and 2,900 hectares this year, according to Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer Handwara, Manzoor Ahmad. He said the response from farmers has been encouraging, with more land being brought under the crop each season.

Farmers said the introduction of new oilseed varieties has improved productivity and provided an additional source of income. Many growers noted that the crop fits well into existing farming cycles, allowing them to cultivate it alongside traditional crops.

Several farmers reported a significant increase in earnings, with some stating that returns are nearly double compared to earlier seasons. They also pointed to government incentives, including bonuses, as a key factor driving interest in oilseed farming.

Field staff are regularly visiting villages to guide farmers on sowing techniques, pest management, and yield improvement, which has helped build confidence among growers and encouraged wider adoption.

However, farmers stressed the need for stable market support, saying assured pricing and procurement will be crucial to sustain the momentum. Without consistent returns, the long-term growth of oilseed cultivation may face challenges.

Officials said they remain optimistic about continued expansion, which could strengthen the rural economy and reduce dependence on imported edible oils.

 

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