Dhanuka Agritech Revolutionizes Apple Farming in Kashmir with Landmark Horticulture Program

 

Srinagar, April 10, 2025 – In a groundbreaking initiative to enhance apple farming and horticulture in Kashmir, Dhanuka Agritech Limited, a leading agrochemical company, hosted a high-profile event on “Scientific Management of Apple” in Srinagar. The program, graced by Dr. M.K. Verma, Director of Agriculture and ICAR-CITH, as the chief guest, showcased innovative solutions to empower apple growers in the region.

 

 

 

Spearheaded by Dr. R.G. Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus of Dhanuka Agritech, the event brought together a diverse audience, including scientists, policymakers, agribusiness leaders, and progressive farmers. The goal was to promote sustainable, high-yield farming practices and cutting-edge technologies tailored to the unique challenges of apple cultivation in Kashmir.

 

The highlight of the event was the unveiling of a tailored product portfolio designed for comprehensive apple orchard management. This includes:

• MIYAKO, a revolutionary miticide developed by Nissan Chemicals, Japan, to combat spider mite infestations.

• DELIGHT (Dodine 65% WP) and CURSOR (Flusilazole), offering advanced disease management solutions.

These products address critical issues like Apple Scab, red mite infestations, and premature leaf fall, ensuring better fruit quality and higher profitability for farmers.

 

Dr. R.G. Agarwal emphasized the importance of blending science and technology with farmer-centric solutions. “India’s food and nutritional security hinge on regions like Kashmir, where high-density apple plantations can triple productivity. By erasing the term ‘poor farmer’ through innovation and strong industry-academia partnerships, we can ensure rural prosperity,” he said.

Dr. M.K. Verma highlighted the transformative potential of high-density planting. “With proper practices, productivity can leap from 11 to over 60 tons per hectare. Research and responsible pesticide use are essential to tackling pest challenges brought on by climate change,” he noted.

 

Experts such as Dr. Manzoor A. Parray, Head of Entomology at SKUAST-K, stressed integrated pest management, incorporating traditional and modern methods like pheromone traps and drone spraying. Dr. Nisar Ahmed Khan, a plant pathology expert, commended products like CURSOR and LUSTRE as “game-changers” for disease management, improving crop health and yields.

 

Dhanuka Agritech’s collaboration with ICAR and 15 agricultural universities underscores its commitment to reaching 14 crore farmers in 6.5 lakh villages across India. Innovative campaigns like QR code verification on packaging ensure product authenticity and build farmer trust.

 

With over 150 participants, including representatives from agricultural universities, ICAR institutions, retailers, and apple growers, the event marked one of the largest scientific collaborations in Jammu & Kashmir’s horticulture sector.

By combining sustainable practices with cutting-edge technologies, Dhanuka Agritech is poised to transform apple farming in Kashmir, empowering farmers to achieve higher yields, better quality, and greater profitability.