The Kashmir Valley has reported a significant revenue of Rs 3 bln (€33 mln) from garlic production during the 2023-2024 fiscal year, according to official data. The data indicates a production of 67,500 metric tons of garlic across 4,500 hectares, with an anticipated total production reaching 70,000 metric tons. A notable portion, 30,000 metric tons, has been exported beyond the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, contributing to the revenue. The average sale price recorded was Rs 100 per kilogram (€1.10), marking an increase from previous years.
Farmers in the region have shown satisfaction with the cultivation outcomes and financial returns. Ghulam Rasool, a local farmer, highlighted the profitability of garlic, mentioning a personal sale of Rs 70,000. The ease of cultivation and lower labor requirements compared to other crops were emphasized as benefits of garlic farming. Director Agriculture, Kashmir, Chowdhary Muhammad Iqbal, acknowledged the year-over-year production increase and mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance marketing strategies. The unique qualities of Kashmiri garlic, including its size and composition, were attributed to the valley's favorable climate, with five varieties currently under cultivation.
Source: kashmirobserver.net