Sopore, Kashmir – Azadi Times
(Manzoor Zahoor)
Kashmir, with its stunning natural beauty, pleasant climate, and rich agricultural heritage, is known worldwide for its fruit production. Among these, apples stand out, especially varieties like Delicious and Golden Delicious, which are highly regarded in both domestic and international markets. The northern region of Kashmir, particularly, has earned a reputation for apple cultivation, contributing significantly to the region’s economy.
In the heart of northern Kashmir lies Sopore, often referred to as “Apple Town,” which is home to Jammu and Kashmir’s largest fruit market and Asia’s second-largest fruit market after Azadpur in Delhi. Established in 1988 by a prominent businessman, Ghulam Mustafa, the market started on a modest scale and has since expanded to cover around 400 kanals of land. Today, it is a bustling hub where fruits like apples are sold, and the annual turnover reaches a staggering 30,000 crore rupees. The market serves as a crucial distribution point, connecting to more than 450 other markets across India. Every day, around 400 trucks transport apples and other fruits to cities throughout the country.
A Thriving Hub for Trade and Business
The Sopore fruit market is not just about its size or trade volume. It is known for its impeccable cleanliness and modern infrastructure, which has made it a model of how a large agricultural market should function. The market spans several hundred acres of land, with a well-maintained office and conference hall. The Fruit Growers Association has also built a guesthouse, providing accommodation and meals for traders visiting the market from across the country. This focus on modern amenities and cleanliness ensures that the market remains attractive to traders and businesspeople.
The market’s importance is further underlined by the economic activity it generates. Thousands of traders, both large and small, are connected to the market. In fact, a significant portion of Jammu and Kashmir’s population is linked to this market in one way or another, whether through direct trade or secondary businesses. The market is a vital part of the local economy, with an estimated 70% of the region’s population dependent on it for their livelihood.
Business Boom During Festival Season
The period between August and November sees a significant surge in business in the Sopore market, owing to the numerous festivals during this time. During these months, the demand for fruits, especially apples, reaches its peak. Traders from all over the country come to the market, taking advantage of the influx of quality produce.
South Kashmir’s Growing Role in the Market
The Sopore market is not only significant for traders in northern Kashmir but also for those in southern Kashmir. Farmers and traders from regions like Pulwama and Shopian, known for their high-quality apples, increasingly rely on this market to sell their produce. Apples from these areas are either sent directly or packaged in Sopore, where they are distributed to other parts of India. This growing dependence highlights the market’s central role in the fruit trade.
Emphasis on Modernization and Technological Advancements
One of the key aspects of the Sopore market’s success is its continuous focus on modernization and the adoption of new technologies. Recently, a workshop was organized by Aero Agri India Ltd., a well-known agricultural company, to help local fruit growers and traders upgrade their knowledge of modern techniques, machinery, and technology in the agriculture and business sectors. The workshop aimed to enhance the business and production capacities of the local fruit industry.
The Future of the Sopore Market
As the market continues to evolve, it will likely see even more growth and technological advancements. The strong foundation laid by the early pioneers of the market, like Ghulam Mustafa, and the ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, cleanliness, and business practices have established the Sopore fruit market as a model of success. The market’s expansion, its role in the economy, and its ability to serve as a major distribution center for fruits and vegetables make it an essential part of not just Kashmir’s economy but also the broader Indian agricultural trade.
The Sopore fruit market is a shining example of how local agricultural markets can thrive with a focus on modernization, technology, and cleanliness. Its role in the economy, the growing importance of apple trade, and its connection to other parts of India make it a key player in the country’s agricultural sector. As the market continues to grow and evolve, it is sure to remain a symbol of modernization and a major force in Kashmir’s economic landscape.
