Pulwama: The Jammu and Kashmir government has taken a strategic approach to paddy cultivation by reintroducing traditional rice varieties while simultaneously developing high-yielding, climate-resilient paddy seeds.
This initiative, led by the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Kashmir (SKUAST-K) in collaboration with the Agriculture Department, aims to preserve agricultural heritage while adapting to changing climatic conditions.
For generations, Kashmir’s farmers have relied on indigenous rice varieties, known for their resilience and adaptability.
However, the introduction of high-yielding hybrids led to a decline in traditional cultivation practices. While modern hybrids promised increased productivity, they also resulted in greater dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, negatively impacting soil health and sustainability.
Climate change has further exacerbated challenges, with erratic weather patterns, unseasonal rains, and rising temperatures affecting paddy yields.
In response, agricultural scientists and policymakers have focused on reviving traditional rice varieties, which are naturally more resilient to local environmental conditions and require fewer chemical inputs.
The revival of traditional rice varieties is not only a scientific necessity but also a cultural and economic effort.
Several niche paddy varieties, such as Mushkbudji, Kamad (Red Rice), Zag, and Nun Beoul, are being promoted under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and the Jammu & Kashmir Climate Innovation Program (JKCIP). These varieties offer distinct advantages, including high nutritional value, aromatic grains, and adaptability to specific environmental conditions.
To enhance their marketability, the government has initiated Geographical Indication (GI) tagging for Mushkbudji rice, ensuring premium pricing and better financial returns for farmers.
The expansion of landrace paddy cultivation has been significant, with thousands of hectares now dedicated to these indigenous strains in districts such as Anantnag, Kupwara, and Budgam.
This shift represents a move toward sustainable farming, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
Among the notable varieties making a comeback, Mushkbudji stands out for its aromatic grains and suitability for higher altitudes.
Zag is a cold-tolerant variety cultivated in waterlogged conditions, while Kamad, or Red Rice, is rich in antioxidants and traditionally grown in valley wetlands.
Nun Beoul, a salt-tolerant variety, offers a solution for farmers dealing with alkaline soils.
While the revival of traditional paddy varieties is a crucial step, SKUAST-K has also been actively developing new high-yielding, climate-resilient rice varieties to sustain productivity.
Incharge minister Agriculture Production Department informed J& K Legislative Assembly that the university has released over 15 high-yielding rice varieties tailored to Kashmir’s temperate climate.
The Shalimar Rice series, including Shalimar Rice 1, 2, 3, and 4, has gained popularity due to its resistance to blast disease and cold stress.
Shalimar Sugandh 1, often referred to as Kashmir Basmati, offers improved grain quality and aromatic properties, making it a preferred choice among farmers.
In 2024, SKUAST-K introduced three new climate-resilient varieties—SR-7, SR-8, and SR-9—designed for different altitude ranges across Kashmir, ensuring better adaptability and higher yields.
To ensure the availability of high-quality seeds, SKUAST-K has taken on the responsibility of breeder and foundation seed production. The university supplies 30 quintals of breeder seed, 1,000 quintals of foundation seed, and 4,000 quintals of truthfully labelled seed annually.
The combination of traditional rice variety revival and climate-resilient hybrids presents a balanced approach to tackling agricultural challenges in Kashmir. Traditional landraces are naturally adapted to local conditions, making them resilient to climate fluctuations, while modern varieties offer higher productivity and disease resistance. The nutritional benefits of traditional rice varieties, such as Kamad’s higher micronutrient content, add further value to their cultivation. Market potential is another key advantage, as niche rice varieties like Mushkbudji command premium prices in domestic and international markets. Reduced dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides ensures ecosystem sustainability, preserving soil health and biodiversity for future generations.
The Agriculture Department remains committed to supporting farmers through various initiatives, including training programs, financial incentives, and market linkages. The focus is not only on promoting climate-resilient seeds but also on expanding organic farming, strengthening supply chains, and improving access to high-value markets.
