Kashmiri apple supply fall short of Diwali demand

Srinagar - Amid a surge in festive demand for Kashmiri apples in terminal markets across the country ahead of Diwali, supplies remain inadequate due to a scab outbreak that affected a significant portion of this year's crop, according to growers and dealers. Zahoor Ahad Tantray, general secretary of the Kashmir Fruit Growers and Dealers Association, stated that large apples, particularly Grade A and gift packs, are experiencing high demand during this Diwali season.

However, the overall supply in fruit mandis is lacking as scab has severely impacted the quality of the crop. This year, around 50 to 55 percent, and in some cases up to 60 percent, of the apples arriving in the mandis are of lower quality Grade B and C apples, which have limited market demand.

Tantray explained that most apples are arriving with a deteriorated quality due to extensive spread of apple scab, affecting both primary and secondary scab. The growers face challenges as the production cost remains the same regardless of the apple grade, but the market return is solely dependent on the quality. Grade A apples fetch a good price, while Grade B and C apples have very low demand in today's market. This inconsistency in quality has left growers, traders, and buyers all concerned.

Mohammad Sohail Tanveer, a dealer from Bihar, expressed satisfaction with the current apple prices, stating that they are reasonable. A wooden crate sells for approximately Rs 1,300, while a cardboard carton goes for up to Rs 600. The high demand during Diwali has contributed to this pricing, and the quality goods arriving in the market are meeting the expectations. On average, around 400 to 500 truckloads leave this market (mandi) every day, according to Tanveer.