In north Kashmir's Handwara sub-district, known for its extensive walnut production, growers continue to face challenges due to the absence of a formal walnut market. Without a designated mandi, farmers are compelled to sell their produce informally, leaving them exposed to price exploitation by middlemen and other logistical difficulties.
According to official data, total walnut production across the district in 2025 reached 8,837 metric tons, with Handwara sub-district contributing 2,500.745 metric tons from seven production zones. Handwara zone recorded 379.725 metric tons, Rajwar 529 metric tons, Vilgam 490 metric tons, Ashpora 285 metric tons, Kralgund 302 metric tons, Langate 134.820 metric tons, and Mawer 380.200 metric tons. A senior official noted that output levels remain consistent with the previous year, but marketing infrastructure and pricing continue to be major concerns for producers.
Local farmers said that the establishment of a dedicated walnut market would enable direct transactions with buyers, increasing transparency and ensuring fair prices. "Walnut harvesting takes great effort every year, but without a proper market, we are left helpless and at the mercy of middlemen. Had the mandi been set up, thousands of farmers would not have been facing these hardships," said Bilal Ahmad, a grower.
"We have been appealing to the government, the district administration, and the Horticulture Department to address this long-standing demand, but to no avail. Establishing a regulated walnut mandi is not just a matter of convenience, but a necessity for protecting the livelihoods of the region's farmers," he added.
Growers also said that a local mandi would help stimulate economic activity, attract traders from other regions, and strengthen market linkages for walnut producers. "We hope that authorities will act swiftly to ensure that Handwara's walnut growers receive the support and recognition they deserve," they said.
President of Rashtriya Kisan Mazdoor Mahasangh J&K, Tanvir Dar, stated that thousands of families in Handwara depend on walnut production for their income. "The government should take a call on setting up a separate mandi for growers so that they can get the desired rates of their produce," he said, adding that the department should also provide life-saving kits to families involved in walnut harvesting.
Horticulture Area Marketing Officer Kupwara, Ali Mohammad, said that a walnut mandi is already operational at the district headquarters, where farmers from various areas bring their produce. When asked about the possibility of a separate market in Handwara, he said that the decision rests with senior officials.
Source: Greater Kashmir
