Sopore, Oct 30 (JKNS): In a key step toward modernizing Kashmir’s horticulture sector, Qul, in collaboration with Jammu & Kashmir Bank, organized a focused awareness drive in Sangrama and Handwara to educate farmers about High-Density Plantation (HDP) and the institutional financing available to support the transition.
The initiative brought together farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and subject-matter experts to bridge the knowledge gap around scientific orchard development and long-term financial planning. The session aligns with Qul’s mission of building a science-led, sustainable, and farmer-centric horticultural ecosystem powered by biosciences, digital tools, and operational excellence.
Officials from J&K Bank highlighted the farmer-friendly provisions of the High-Density Apple Development Programme (HADP) and the broader High-Density Plantation Scheme. “The scheme provides both technical and financial support to farmers ready to modernize their orchards,” a senior official mentioned. “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 repayment period can extend to eight years, with no instalments for the first three years.”
He added that the financing covers a wide range of high-value crops including apple, pear, cherry, citrus fruits, kiwi, guava, mango, walnut, almond, olive, and dragon fruit.
Representing Qul, Nahida Fayaz, Incharge Qulgahs, emphasized the company’s focus on integrating finance with science.
“Qul is not just a supplier, but we are partners in the farmer’s entire journey,” she said. “From soil profiling and orchard design to to canopy management and disease diagnostics, our teams ensure continuous support. Collaborations like this with J&K Bank strengthen the ecosystem we are building for sustainable, high-density farming.”Farmers at the event actively engaged with experts, seeking guidance on documentation, orchard design, and technical standards. Many shared that the session clarified long-standing doubts around financing modern orchards.“This is the first time the entire process was explained so simply,” said Ghulam Nabi, a farmer from Sopore. “With support from Qul and the Bank, high-density farming now feels within reach of everyone.”
The awareness drive concluded with a renewed sense of confidence among participants and reinforced the shared commitment of Qul and J&K Bank to advancing Kashmir’s horticulture through innovation, collaboration, and scientific cultivation. (JKNS)
