High-density plantation (HDP) adoption is driving changes in India's Jammu and Kashmir horticulture sector, supporting productivity gains, orchard renewal, and infrastructure development, according to a report by NITI Aayog.
Horticulture generates around ₹10,000 crore (US$1.20 billion) annually and supports about 3.5 million people. The region remains a fruit-producing area due to its climatic conditions.
HDP adoption has increased, with 3.249 million plants distributed in 2023–24 compared to 0.641 million in 2021–22. The report states, "HDP adoption has surged, with 32.49 lakh plants distributed in 2023–24, compared to 6.41 lakh in 2021–22," indicating expansion of planting systems and efforts to improve planting material and orchard structure.
The horticulture area increased from 335,000 hectares in 2020–21 to 345,000 hectares in 2023–24. Output rose from 2.23 million tons to 2.722 million tons in 2022–23, before declining to 2.643 million tons in 2023–24, reflecting productivity gains over the period.
High- and medium-density plantations have expanded, with additional hectares added in recent years. Post-harvest infrastructure investment has continued, with 12 controlled atmosphere storage units installed in 2023–24, adding 60,000 tons of capacity and bringing total capacity to 270,000 tons. Further expansion is planned.
Under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme, ₹1,028.21 crore (US$123.70 million) has been allocated to horticulture projects focused on productivity and market integration. Digital platforms such as the National Agriculture Market have expanded access, linking 17 mandis and facilitating transactions worth ₹416 crore (US$49.99 million).
Value addition capacity has increased, with food processing units rising from 8 in 2020–21 to 197 in 2023–24.
Export performance has declined, with fruit exports falling from 1.905 million tons in 2022–23 to 1.367 million tons in 2023–24. Export revenue decreased from ₹8,646 crore (US$1.04 billion) to ₹5,756 crore (US$691.60 million).
The report indicates that HDP adoption, combined with infrastructure and policy measures, is shaping production and supply trends in the region.
Source: Greater Kashmir
