Early Times Report
Kathua, Aug 30: The walnut harvesting season is currently underway in the hilly regions of Bani in Jammu and Kashmir. Farmers and their families are busy in their orchards, gathering the ripe walnuts from the trees. These walnuts, cultivated using traditional methods, are viewed by the farmers as a product of natural farming. The farmers in Bani explained that after harvesting, the walnuts are cleaned and sun-dried for about 5 to 6 days before being sent to the market for sale, adding that for local farmers, this is not merely a crop but the result of year-long hard work and a vital source of income.
Farmer Madan Lal shared that he has been working in the horticulture sector for nearly 30 years. He owns approximately 100 walnut trees, primarily of the Hamdan and Suleman varieties.
He produces walnuts annually, with his total yield sometimes reaching up to 50,000 walnuts. According to Madan Lal, walnut farming has long been a crucial source of income for him.
He added that he draws great inspiration whenever Prime Minister Modi speaks about farmers and horticulture; the Prime Minister’s words regarding farmers and horticulture, shared through the ‘Mann Ki Baat’ program, have encouraged him to move forward.
Another farmer, Adil, mentioned that he eagerly awaits the walnut harvest all year round. |
