A practical reference for farmers

Vegetable cultivation in Kashmir has been an important component of agricultural farming and over the years it is growing sizeably with the introduction of kitchen gardens, using free spaces for vegetable farming etc.

Over the past few years the vegetable production in Jammu and Kashmir has increased by more than 30 per cent and so has the area under vegetable cultivation. In 2019-20 the vegetable production was recorded at 1.34 million tons which crossed two million tons in 2023. At present an area of more than 80, 000 hectares is under vegetable cultivation in J&K.

The increase in vegetable cultivation and production has become possible due to many factors like increased interest among people in backyard farming, government initiatives, technological advancements and, of course, the unwavering commitment of farmers. So this phenomenal growth of a farming component, which is expected to lessen considerably the dependence on seasonal import of vegetables from northern states like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh etc,  cannot skip the eye of a vegetable scientist and researcher. And in this scenario has come up a book recently-Commercial Vegetable Production: Important Vegetables of Jammu & Kashmir and Their Marketing by Dr.  Rakshanda Anayat, herself an academic and researcher, on the subject.

The book, among other things, offers an insightful exploration into the agricultural practices of Kashmir, a region renowned for its unique climatic conditions and diverse horticultural potential. It serves as both a comprehensive guide and a practical reference for farmers, agronomists, and agricultural students interested in the commercial cultivation of vegetables in Jammu & Kashmir.

The book introduces its readers to the concept of Hi-tech and healthy nursery, which form the basis and are crucial for successful vegetable cultivation. The book delves into the specific requirements for growing vegetables in this area, addressing both traditional methods and modern advancements. Detailed profiles of important vegetables cultivated in the region, including their optimal growing conditions, soil health management, pest and disease management, and best practices for achieving high yields provides a ready reckoner about these vegetables to its readers. The author covers a range of vegetables, from staple crops to high-value niche crops, providing a balanced view of their cultivation requirements.

The latter part of the book shifts focus to marketing strategies, an area often overlooked in agricultural literature. This section provides valuable insights into market trends, pricing strategies, and value addition techniques. It highlights the challenges faced by local farmers in accessing broader markets and suggests practical solutions to enhance market reach and profitability.

From cultivation techniques to marketing strategies, the book offers a thorough examination of the commercial vegetable production process. This holistic approach makes it a valuable resource for anyone involved in or studying vegetable farming in the region. The inclusion of real-world examples, case studies, and actionable recommendations enhances the book’s utility for practitioners. The marketing section, in particular, stands out for its practical advice on navigating local, regional markets and E-commerce platforms.

While the book is rich in detail, some readers may find the technical language and jargon challenging, especially those new to commercial agriculture or vegetable production. The book could benefit from more diagrams, charts, and photographs to illustrate key concepts and practices. Visual aids would have enhanced the understanding and made the content more engaging.

Overall Commercial Vegetable Production: Important Vegetables of Jammu & Kashmir and Their Marketing is a well-researched and informative book that fills a significant gap in agricultural literature concerning this unique region. It is a commendable resource for anyone looking to deepen their knowledge of vegetable production and marketing in Jammu & Kashmir. Despite some minor drawbacks, its practical insights and regional focus make it a valuable addition to the library of agricultural professionals and enthusiasts alike.

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The author is a senior scientist and Professor at the Division of Vegetable Sciences, SKUAST-K, Shalimar.