Srinagar, June 10 : In a significant development, garlic production in Kashmir has witnessed a notable increase this season, recording a rise of 2,500 metric tons. The surge has propelled the expected production to reach 70,000 metric tons, a promising outlook for the farming community.
Garlic, a cash crop and essential culinary ingredient, holds a pivotal role in Kashmiri households, enriching various dishes with its distinctive flavor and aroma.
Farmers like Javaid Ahmad from Pulwama underscored its multifaceted benefits, saying, “Garlic is not just a spice; it’s a remedy for various ailments and a culinary delight.”
He noted that garlic has numerous health benefits, including managing blood pressure and serving as a medicine during winters. “Garlic has cholesterol-lowering properties and acts as a blood thinner. It has a pleasant aroma and enhances the flavor of homemade dishes,” he said, adding that a paste made of garlic and chili is also sold as a cake.
Bilal Ahmad Dar, a prominent garlic trader, expressed optimism regarding the growing trend of garlic production in Kashmir. He emphasised the need for enhanced processing techniques to elevate the quality and market value of Kashmiri garlic, akin to the standards observed in other regions. Dar said, “In the future, garlic production could become as significant as apple cultivation and its business in Kashmir.”
“In the future, garlic production could become as significant as apple cultivation and its business in Kashmir. Unfortunately, farmers are unaware that cutting the roots and cleaning the leaves could fetch them a higher price. Currently, they sell it unprocessed and wet, which results in lower earnings,” he said.
He expects double the production at the Mandi this year compared to the last, noting improvements in the size and quality of the garlic. He said that as of now, the rate per kilogram ranges from Rs 80 to 85 because the garlic is unprocessed and wet. He said that growers should follow processing practices similar to those in Himachal Pradesh, where garlic is sold clean, with its leaves and roots cut.
Dr.AejazMalla, a seasoned grower and trader, reflected on the evolution of garlic cultivation in Kashmir, tracing its transition from a household staple to a commercially viable venture.
With the introduction of advanced production methods and Chinese garlic seeds, Kashmiri garlic has garnered global recognition for its quality and shelf life. Malla added, “Garlic from Kashmir is now considered top quality globally. Garlic production has become commercial. Kulgam is recognized as the main producer of Chinese garlic, known for its high shelf life and commercial value,” he said. Malla added that garlic is categorized as wet, semi-wet, and dry, and farmers need to process it at home to get better prices.
Sartaj Ahmad Shah, Joint Director Agriculture Extension Kashmir, lauded the south Kashmir belt as the primary contributor to the surge in garlic production. He revealed that in the previous season, garlic cultivation spanned over 4500 hectares, yielding an impressive 67,500 metric tons. Notably, the revenue generated amounted to Rs 300 crores, underlining the economic significance of garlic cultivation in the region.
As Kashmir gears up for another successful season of garlic cultivation, stakeholders remain optimistic about further advancements and market expansions in the garlic industry.
