Kashmir walnut farmers face heavy losses amid unusual weather conditions

Unusual weather conditions over the past year have dealt a severe blow to walnut farmers in Jammu and Kashmir’s, with growers reporting a sharp decline in production. Farmers say reduced rainfall, unseasonal rains, and delayed but intense winter conditions have negatively affected walnut crops, threatening the livelihoods of thousands of families who depend heavily on walnut farming. Many growers in the region claim that walnuts remain their primary source of income, with limited cultivation of alternative crops such as apples.

Local farmers have expressed concern over mounting financial losses, saying the poor yield may leave them unable to recover the costs spent on medicines and pesticides. They added that apple production has also suffered this year, worsening the economic strain on farming communities. Farmers are now urging the government to step in with financial assistance and relief measures, warning that without support, many families in the region could face serious hardship in the coming months.