Pulwama, Dec 12: In an important step toward accelerating Kashmir’s horticultural modernization, Qul, in partnership with Jammu & Kashmir Bank, organised an extensive awareness programme at Eid Gah Drabgam, Pulwama, to educate farmers about the High-Density Plantation (HDP) Scheme and the financial support available for adopting modern orchard systems.
The programme, as per a statement, was designed to help growers clearly understand the provisions of the High-Density Apple Development Programme (HADP) and the wider High-Density Plantation Scheme. Farmers received a detailed walkthrough of the scheme benefits, eligibility requirements, documentation process, and the long-term economic advantages of transitioning from traditional orchards to high-density models.
Qul’s Managing Director, Khuram Mir, attended the event and engaged directly with farmers. Participants raised concerns related to varietal choices, gaps from previous plantation years, and guidance on future-proof apple varieties. The MD responded to each query, explaining the scientific and commercial suitability of different cultivars and the need for structured orchard planning.
Officials from J&K Bank elaborated on the farmer-friendly provisions of the HDP Scheme. They highlighted that the programme offers both technical and financial assistance to growers ready to shift to high-density systems.
They reiterated that, depending on the project, up to 75% of financing is available, with collateral-free loans up to ₹5 lakh for small and marginal farmers. The financing also includes a repayment period of up to eight years, with no instalments for the first three years.
Bank officials further clarified that the scheme covers a broad range of high-value crops—apple, pear, cherry, citrus fruits, kiwi, guava, mango, walnut, almond, olive, and dragon fruit.
Speaking at the event, Qul’s Managing Director, Khuram Mir, said: “Qul is not merely a supplier—we are partners in a farmer’s entire journey. From soil profiling and orchard architecture to canopy management and disease diagnostics, our intervention is continuous and science-driven. Collaborations like Friday’s programme with J&K Bank strengthen the horticulture ecosystem we are building for sustainable, high-density farming across Kashmir.”
Farmers actively interacted with both technical teams, seeking clarity on orchard design, documentation, implementation timelines, and scientific standards. Many participants shared that the session resolved long-pending doubts, particularly regarding financing and the practical steps required to establish high-density orchards.
Ghulam Nabi, a farmer from Raj Pora Pulwama, remarked: “This is the first time the entire process was explained in such a simple and practical way. With guidance from Qul and support from the Bank, adopting high-density farming now seems achievable for every farmer.”
He added that HDP is increasingly becoming the future of horticulture in Kashmir.
Local growers also appreciated Khuram Mir’s pioneering role in introducing the high-density concept in Kashmir and for consistently supporting farmers through scientific interventions and field visits.
The programme concluded with renewed confidence among growers and reaffirmed the shared commitment of Qul and J&K Bank to drive horticultural growth through innovation, collaboration, and farmer-centric awareness. The event was attended by good number of farmers from across Pulwama district.
