Bougam, a hamlet in Kashmir's Budgam district, has transitioned from traditional apple orchards to vegetable farming in response to climate variability. Ab Majeed Ahanger, an environmental expert, highlights that unpredictable conditions in April have impacted apple blossoms, necessitating a shift for stability.
Bashir Ah, a local farmer, articulates the reasons behind this agricultural pivot. "Choosing vegetable farming over orchards was a significant decision for me. I previously produced apples, but I faced frequent losses as weather patterns started to shift in April." Since adopting vegetable cultivation 15 years ago, he reports stable outcomes. "I can cultivate vegetables three times a year using seed tunnels."
Ab Majeed Bhat, who manages about 2 acres, cites increased profitability through three annual harvest cycles. He elaborates, "Each kanal (one-eighth of an acre) yields 15–20 quintals of vegetables annually, including cauliflower, cabbage, cucumber, broccoli, and spinach."
Bougam is informally known as 'Mini Punjab' due to its extensive vegetable output. Ab Majeed points out the conversion of paddy fields and orchards into vegetable farms. This transition is supported by labor from across the valley, notably Poonch, Doda, Rajouri, and Kupwara.
Irfan Bashir, a 25-year-old graduate, illustrates the socio-economic impact. "I have been involved in vegetable farming since class 10. At times, I questioned my choice, especially when I saw other young boys my age enjoying their studies and social lives." He acknowledges that Kashmir's unemployment influenced his path. "I recognised the limited job opportunities that would have been available to me as a graduate. Now, I take pride in our ability to produce 500 quintals of various vegetables and provide employment to many individuals in need."
Source: IDR
