Fruit growers in the valley are experiencing renewed optimism as fresh demand for Kashmiri apples surges across Indian markets, bringing much-needed relief and joy to the region’s apple-growing community.Several growers said that after a sluggish demand during the peak harvesting season, demand for apples has picked up across the country, which allowed them to secure better prices and lifted the spirits of many growers.Mohammad Yaqoob, a fruit grower from Shopian, said that during the peak season, apple boxes were selling at around Rs 600 to 800, but are now fetching between Rs 1,000 and 1,200. “Those who sold their produce earlier faced losses, but currently, growers are seeing good returns,” he said.Growers across Kashmir had been anxious this season as a combination of heatwaves and an extended dry spell impacted both fruit quality and overall yield. However, the current high demand for Kashmiri apples, known for their unique flavour and crispness, is creating a favourable market situation, offsetting the lower production for many growers.Javid Ahmad, another fruit grower, said that while the majority of growers have already sold their produce, many are now sending their apples to market and receiving good returns. He added that flooding the market all at once lowers demand, and growers should time their sales based on market demand rather than personal preference
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