Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Aug 9: Farmers in the Raipora area of Ganderbal district, often called the “Grapes Village of Kashmir,” are in full swing with the grape harvest, transforming the usually quiet village into a bustling hub of activity.
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Located in the higher reaches of Ganderbal, Raipora is renowned for producing high-quality grapes, earning its nickname for the exceptional varieties it cultivates, including Sahiba, Hussaini, and Anabeshai. These grapes are highly sought after and sold throughout the valley.
Grape harvesting typically occurs from August to early September. Tanvir Ahmad, a local farmer, explained that the village of 800 residents sees more than 80 percent of its population engaged in grape cultivation.
“The harvesting season lasts for about a month and has been a tradition for generations. It is profitable, and we receive government support. All the youth are involved in this crucial period as we work year-round for this harvest,” he said.
The farmers said the sweetness of Raipora’s grapes has been celebrated in the poetry of Kashmir’s revered saint, Sheikh Nooruddin Wali. They believe this exceptional sweetness is a blessing from another Sufi saint, Mir Syed Shah Sadiq Qalandar, who lived in the region centuries ago.
“Our Sufi saints have blessed this place with extraordinary grapes. They are not only tastier but also require fewer pesticides. We have reduced pesticide use from seven sprays to three, and we aim to go completely organic in the future,” another farmer said.
Taj Singh Mehta, Horticulture Development Officer for Ganderbal, highlighted the significance of Raipora’s grape production. “Raipora is an exemplary site for high-quality grape cultivation, which provides employment opportunities for the youth. We plan to further promote grape cultivation and introduce new varieties to enhance production and employment,” he said.
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