Apples aren’t Just Wasted; this is an Existential Threat to Kashmir’s Horticulture Industry

Kashmir's apple industry is grappling with an existential crisis as unseasonal torrential rains and infrastructural failures devastate the region's horticulture sector. With losses estimated between 45% to 70% in key districts, growers face a dual threat of climate-induced crop destruction and inadequate state support. The closure of NH-44 has exacerbated the situation, preventing the transport of salvaged harvests and leading to a catastrophic price crash. Urgent measures, including compensation, cooperative revival, and infrastructure resilience, are essential to prevent the industry's collapse.