Kashmir, historically known for its rich tradition in cottage industries, is witnessing a resurgence led by its educated youth. The scarcity of opportunities in both the private and public sectors has propelled young Kashmiris to reimagine and revive the cottage industries, not through traditional means but with innovative, modern and sustainable techniques.
Unemployment Woes
The unemployment rates in Jammu and Kashmir have remained consistently high, reflecting a grim reality where the public sector cannot absorb the entire working population. As of the latest reports, the unemployment rate in the region stands at around 21.6%, one of the highest in India. This scenario is compounded by the non-expansion of large industries which have been unable to establish a significant presence in Kashmir. The industrial development that could accommodate a substantial number of youths remains largely dormant.
However, an encouraging trend is emerging in Kashmir. Educated youths are increasingly turning towards entrepreneurship, especially in the revival and modernization of cottage industries. Urban and rural areas across the valley are becoming hubs of innovation where young entrepreneurs are establishing their units, infusing traditional industries with new technologies and methods.
Modern Innovations in Cottage Industries
Cottage industries in Kashmir, which were once on the brink of extinction, are now being revitalized with modern innovations. An exemplary case is the resurgence of the traditional Tonga (Royal Horse Cart) on Foreshore Road in Srinagar.
This unique initiative has been taken by four enterprising youth from Srinagar- Shahid, Momin, Imtiyaz and Aadil – all graduates, who have breathed new life into a traditional mode of transport. Their beautiful and royal Tonga Ride along the famous Boulevard Road has become a hit among both locals and tourists, with videos of their venture trending on social media. This creative endeavour not only provides an employment avenue for the youth but also revives the rich history of the Tonga in Kashmir, which was once the most economical means of transport for carrying essentials.
Young Kashmiris to reimagine and revive the cottage industries, not through traditional means but with innovative, modern and sustainable techniques
The revival of this iconic ride offers a nostalgic and charming experience, connecting modern visitors with Kashmir’s cultural past. This symbolic revival reflects the broader trend where youth are breathing new life into traditional crafts with contemporary innovations.
Sagg Eco Village, Ganderbal
Famously known as Sagg Eco Village, established by Fayaz Ahmad Dar at Ganderbal in Kashmir, is the region’s first ecological village. Spanning approximately on 1.5 acres, it integrates natural farming, cultural retreats and lifestyle research to promote sustainable living and preserve Kashmiri heritage.
The village features traditional mud huts, an organic farm and adheres to zero-waste principles, offering visitors an immersive experience in eco-friendly practices. Sagg Eco Village provides recreational stays, educational camps, workshops and consulting services, aiming to inspire ecological entrepreneurship and empower local communities. Educated youth, tourists and budding writers throng to this venture to deliberate and enjoy the traditional lifestyle of Kashmir in a contemporary model.
Dairy Farming
The dairy farming industry in the Kashmir Valley, once a traditional livelihood, is now experiencing a significant resurgence, attracting educated young individuals who view it as a viable and promising career path. Over the past two decades, the Valley’s dairy sector has undergone a remarkable transformation, underscoring the region’s dedication to agricultural development and self-sufficiency. This evolution is particularly evident in Budgam, Baramulla, Shopian, Kulgam and Ganderbal, where initiatives like the Prime Minister Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) have empowered unemployed youth by providing loans and subsidies to establish their own dairy businesses, fostering employment and entrepreneurship.
According to official statistics, milk production in the Valley has surged by an extraordinary 250% during this period, reflecting the collaborative efforts of local farmers and supportive government policies. The sector’s growth is fuelled by the adoption of modern dairy farming practices, enhanced livestock management and the introduction of high-yielding cattle breeds. As a result, the Valley now hosts over 40,000 successful dairy units, each contributing to the expanding dairy economy.
Kashmir now boasts of over 40,000 successful dairy units, each contributing to the expanding dairy economy
The Jammu and Kashmir government aims to further bolster this growth, projecting an increase in average annual milk productivity from the current 2,380 liters to an ambitious 4,300 liters by 2027. This insight into the Valley’s dairy farming sector not only highlights its potential but also underscores the critical role of innovation, policy support and youth engagement in driving sustainable agricultural progress.
Papier-Mâché, Carpet Weaving and Other Cottage Industries
Historically, cottage industries have been the backbone of Kashmir’s economy, providing employment to a significant section of the population. These industries, ranging from handicrafts to small-scale agriculture, have not only supported livelihoods but have also preserved the cultural heritage of the region. According to the Economic Survey of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, the handicrafts sector alone employs over 400,000 artisans, contributing around Rs, 2,000 crore to the state’s Gross Domestic Production annually.
The modernization of traditional industries has led to increased efficiency and productivity. For instance, the papier-mâché industry, known for its intricate designs and craftsmanship, has seen resurgence with the introduction of new tools and techniques. Artisans are now using digital designs to create more intricate patterns, reducing production time while maintaining quality. Similarly, the carpet weaving industry, which dates back centuries, is now incorporating synthetic dyes and computerized looms, making the process faster and products more durable.
The Emergence of Cafés and Restaurants with Traditional Ambience
Another remarkable trend among the youth in Kashmir is the establishment of cafes and restaurants that blend traditional Kashmiri ambience with modern aesthetics. These establishments are not just about serving food but also about offering an immersive cultural experience. Young entrepreneurs are opening cafes that showcase Kashmiri heritage through their decor, menu and overall atmosphere, providing a space for both locals and tourists to enjoy the essence of Kashmir in a contemporary setting.
Places like Chai Jaai, Café Liberty, The Garage, Mann Te Salva, Zero Miles, 14th Avenue in Srinagar and periphery have become popular for their traditional Kashmiri tea served in samovars, along with local delicacies. The interiors of these cafes often feature traditional wooden carvings, papier-mâché art and antique furniture, creating a unique environment that resonates with the region’s rich cultural history. These cafes also host cultural events, poetry readings and live music, making them cultural hubs that attract the youth and tourists alike. The success of such ventures underscores the entrepreneurial spirit of Kashmir’s youth and their ability to innovate while staying rooted in their cultural heritage.
Harvesting Success in Bountiful Orchards
In the last few years, the most significant transformation has been observed in the apple industry. Traditionally, apple farming in Kashmir involved varieties that took up to 12-18 years to mature and yield fruit. The introduction of high-density apple varieties has revolutionized the industry, with plants yielding fruit in just 1-2 years. This rapid turnover has generated considerable interest among the youth, many of whom are educated and tech-savvy, leading to a new wave of entrepreneurship in horticulture.
High-density apple cultivation continues to transform Kashmir’s horticulture sector, offering farmers significantly better returns compared to traditional apple varieties. This modern method of apple farming has gained momentum since its introduction in Kashmir after 2015, with increasing numbers of farmers converting their lands to high-density apple orchards.
An official from the Horticulture Department talked to KC highlighted the rising demand for high-density apple farming. “Farmers are finding great success in transitioning to this lucrative cultivation method,” the official said.
Huge Harvest, Happy Farmers
The story of Tariq Ahmad, a local grower from Sopore, exemplifies this success while talking to KC. He shared that his earnings from traditional apple trees on his five-canal land were around Rs 180,000. However, after switching to high-density apple farming, his earnings soared to Rs 900,000 by the second year. “This remarkable increase in income has encouraged me to expand my high-density root prints,” Tariq added.
The resurgence of cottage industries in Kashmir, led by the educated youth and driven by modern innovations, marks a new chapter in the region’s economic narrative
This early production cycle allows farmers to harvest the apples in August and September, reducing the risk of damage from early snowfall in November, which often affects traditional apple harvests.
From Jeromine to Fuji
The Diverse World of Kashmiri Apples
Currently, the most popular high-density apple varieties in Kashmir include Jeromine, King Roat, Gala Scarlet, Red Velox, Scarlet Spur-II, Super Chief, Italy, Redlum Gala and Auvi Fuji. These varieties are not only early bearers but also produce quality fruit that can compete with international standards.
The labour-intensive nature of apple farming, including tasks such as planting, pruning, harvesting and packaging requires a substantial workforce, thereby creating numerous job opportunities. Additionally, the ancillary sectors like cold storage facilities, transport, marketing and agro-processing units further expand the employment potential of the apple industry.
Establishment Of New Nurseries
The transformation of Kashmir’s apple industry through high-density cultivation has also led to the establishment of new nurseries to meet the burgeoning demand. An official pointed out that orchardists receive a 50% subsidy for establishing high-density fruit orchards, making this transition more accessible to farmers.
Under a modified high-density plantation scheme, the government aims to bring 5,500 hectares of land in Jammu and Kashmir under high-density apple cultivation by 2026. This ambitious plan is set against the backdrop of Kashmir’s substantial apple production, which annually ranges between 2 to 2.5 million metric tonnes.
High-density apple orchards are not only more productive but also more economically viable. These orchards allow for better land use and yield higher returns on investment. As a result, the youth are increasingly participating in this sector, setting up their orchards and leveraging modern agricultural practices to maximize output and quality.
Multiple Economic Benefits
The shift towards high-density apple farming has several economic implications. Firstly, it addresses the issue of unemployment by providing a sustainable livelihood to 70% of the population depending on Horticulture particularly on Apple farming and trading. The apple farming has the potential to absorb a large number of the unemployed youth in Kashmir, far more than the tourism sector, which has traditionally been viewed as a primary driver of the region’s economy.
Secondly, the quality of apples produced in Kashmir now matches that of imported varieties. The high-density apple industry can also strengthen Kashmir’s export potential. Currently, a significant portion of India’s apple consumption depends on imports from countries like the USA, China, Iran and New Zealand. By enhancing the quality and quantity of apple production through high-density farming, Kashmir can not only meet domestic demand but also reduce imports, thereby saving foreign exchange and positioning itself as a key player in the global apple market.
The Indian government, recognizing the potential of Kashmir’s apple industry, can further incentivize this sector, creating policies that promote growth and development.
By enhancing the quality and quantity of apple production through high-density farming, Kashmir can meet domestic demand and reduce imports, thereby saving foreign exchange and positioning itself as a key player in the global apple market
While tourism has traditionally been a significant contributor to Kashmir’s economy, the apple industry, particularly with the advent of high-density farming, holds even greater potential. Annually, Kashmir apples contribute approximately Rs, 8,000 crore to the region’s economy. In comparison, the tourism industry, despite its prominence, generates around Rs, 4,000 to 5,000 crore per year.
Leveraging Social Media
Today’s youth in Kashmir are not only transforming the apple industry through high-density farming but also by utilizing the internet and social media platforms to share knowledge and best practices. Young educated orchardists are using these digital tools to disseminate information on crucial aspects of apple farming, such as grafting techniques, pruning schedules and the optimal timing and methods for applying fertilizers and pesticides.
Platforms like Facebook, YouTube and Instagram have become virtual classrooms where experienced farmers and horticulture experts upload tutorials and live demonstrations, reaching a broader audience. These online resources have been instrumental in providing practical, on-the-ground knowledge that is accessible to anyone with an internet connection, breaking the traditional barriers to agricultural education.
This digital dissemination of knowledge has motivated many unemployed youths to explore careers in apple farming, seeing it as a viable and lucrative alternative to government jobs. With the guidance available online, they are more confident in managing their orchards effectively, improving productivity and quality. The peer-sharing culture fostered by social media has created a community of young entrepreneurs in the apple industry, who are actively supporting each other’s growth and success.
The shift from reliance on government jobs to entrepreneurial ventures in apple farming represents a significant socio-economic transformation in Kashmir. By embracing modern communication tools and agricultural techniques, the youth are revitalizing the apple industry, turning it into a dynamic and attractive employment sector.
Government Support and Future Prospects
The role of the government is crucial in sustaining this positive trend. By providing incentives, infrastructure and support for research and development, the government can bolster the apple industry and other cottage industries. Policies that facilitate access to modern technology, improve logistics and ensure market access are essential for the continued growth of these sectors.
The revival of cottage industries and the boom in high-density apple farming are just the beginning. With the right support, these industries can significantly contribute to the economic stability of Kashmir, providing employment to thousands and boosting the region’s overall development.
The resurgence of cottage industries in Kashmir, led by the educated youth and driven by modern innovations, marks a new chapter in the region’s economic narrative. The high-density apple revolution stands out as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how traditional sectors can be revitalized with contemporary practices. This transformation not only offers a solution to the unemployment crisis but also positions Kashmir as a key player in India’s horticulture sector.
As the government and private stakeholders continue to support these ventures, the dream of a self-reliant Kashmir, where traditional industries thrive alongside modern innovations, is becoming a reality. The youth of Kashmir, with their ingenuity and resilience, are paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous future.
