Don’t Let Kashmir’s Rice Fields Disappear

The fast conversion of paddy fields into apple orchards across Kashmir is a serious threat to the Valley’s ability to feed itself. Experts warn that if this continues, Kashmir could become 100 percent dependent on other states for rice. A region once known for growing its own rice is now at a dangerous point. The numbers are worrying. Paddy farming land in Jammu and Kashmir has fallen from 1,62,309 hectares in 2012–13 to 1,34,067 hectares in 2021–22—a drop of 17 percent. In Pulwama, once the rice bowl of Kashmir, nearly 70 percent of paddy land has been converted. The Valley already faces a food shortage of 40-50 percent, importing most of its rice from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. The reason for this shift is simple. Apple farming gives farmers more money than paddy. Farmers want better earnings, and that is understandable. But the government must also think about long-term food security. If Kashmir stops growing rice completely, any disruption in supply, due to natural disasters, road closures, or political trouble, could lead to severe shortages. The Valley’s geographical isolation makes it particularly vulnerable. Without adequate local production, even a week-long highway closure could create a crisis. The solution requires a balanced, multi-pronged strategy. What needs to be done? First, the government must protect prime paddy land from being converted freely. Second, farmers should be given better prices and support to continue growing rice. Third, high-yield rice varieties and better irrigation can make paddy farming more profitable. Fourth, a strategic buffer stock of locally grown rice must be created. The Valley needs both apples for income and rice for food security. But without urgent action, rice fields will disappear. The time to act is now. Tomorrow’s empty plates will not forgive today’s neglect.