Walnut kernels are revered for their exquisite taste and nutritional value

In Kashmir’s dry fruit treasure, one place stands out: Lolab. The place offers a captivating glimpse of dense walnut trees with heavy branches scattering over the vast land. If goodness, royalty, fine taste, strength, and beauty had a name or were compiled into one, it would take the shape of Lolab dry fruits. Known for their richness in protein, fats, minerals, and vitamin B.
With the advent of autumn in Kashmir, a vibrant tapestry of ripe walnuts emerges that carries the bulk of economic prosperity. For generations, the arrival of late autumn heralds a familiar sight of walnut kernels in the towns and markets of Kupwara and Lolab.
Walnut kernels are revered for their exquisite taste and nutritional value. They have long been an integral part of Kashmiri cuisine, often eaten with salad. The quality of walnuts one gets from the valley is simply matchless because they are brought directly from the farm. Enriched with quality-based nutrients that nurture the body’s requirements, our walnuts are widely acclaimed for their purity across Kashmir.
Locals, particularly from Dilbagh Diver, are associated with the production of hazelnuts and earn their livelihood from this sector. Hazel production is the peculiarity of the valley. Apart from this, a hefty production of dry fruits is produced in the valley. Dried fruits are nutritious and have become more popular in daily diets. Researchers are of the opinion that one piece of dried fruit contains nearly the same amount of nutrients as fresh fruit. Dried products have become the most crucial for sustainable development. It has also been observed that there is a surge in the consumption of dry fruits.
Notwithstanding, many areas in the Lolab region where dry fruit production is steadily growing include Chandigham, Diver, Warnow, and many more. The production of almonds and walnuts acts as a prime resource and livelihood for many households. Rising consumer awareness of the benefits offered has been instrumental in boosting demand.
Blessed with marvellous agro-climatic conditions and topography, the valley has the potential to grow a number of walnut varieties. The major walnut-growing areas in the valley are Chandigham, Lalpora, Diver, Thundoosa, Dourusa, and many more. The people of these areas are making a good living from walnut cultivation. The Department of Horticulture is also planning to execute some schemes for farmers to increase production and revenue for the people associated with its cultivation.
In the days of yore, I explicitly recall how walnuts were stored after being plucked from tall walnut trees, and later dried under sunshine to extract their kernels. The main purpose of drying is to lower their moisture content to a particular level that will prevent the growth of microorganisms. Today, as we observe the efforts of the concerned department striving to grow and nurture these plantations, it reflects a positive sign. It is our responsibility to ensure their proper protection and preservation. As we grow more, the local economy of the valley will attain optimal revenue. Priority is protection.
The writer is a teacher and can be reached at [email protected]

Qysar ul Islam Shah