Srinagar, Sept 29: The Central Sub-Committee on Crop Standards of SKUAST Jammu has recommended the release and notification of the walnut variety ‘Parbat,’ developed by the university. This decision was made during the 31st meeting, held on 19th July and 5th August 2024, chaired by Prof. Sanjay Kumar Singh, Deputy Director General (Horticultural Science). ‘Parbat,’ bred under the leadership of Dr. Parshant Bakshi, is characterized by its adaptability to harsh climates and superior yield, making it a promising variety for expanding walnut production in Jammu and Kashmir, a statement issued to Ziraat Times today said.
The committee reviewed numerous horticultural crop varieties, and ‘Parbat,’ with its medium tree vigor and superior nut quality, was highlighted for its potential to withstand climate variability. Its high kernel percentage, oil content, and resilience during the rainy season make it particularly suitable for cultivation in areas prone to heavy snowfall, like Gow Padder in Kishtwar.
Key characteristics of the nut include:
• Nut weight: 19.18 g
• Nut dimensions: Length – 44.32 mm, Width – 42.17 mm, Thickness – 41.25 mm
• Kernel weight: 10.22 g
• Kernel percentage: 53.28%
• Nut yield: 90 kg per tree
• Protein: 22 % and Oil content: 61.50%
The tree is located at Gow Padder, 65 km from Kishtwar town, at an elevation of 1968 m above mean sea level. The region experiences heavy snowfall from October to March, making the ‘Parbat’ variety, with its late leafing and late maturity, particularly well-suited to future climate change conditions. Its unique characteristic of nut maturity within the hull before hull dehiscence makes it resistant to quality degradation during the rainy season, a common occurrence in the area.
With a superior yield compared to other genotypes in Jammu and Kashmir, the ‘Parbat’ walnut holds promise for expanding walnut production in the region and improving resilience to climate variability.
In addition to ‘Parbat,’ two more walnut and pecannut varieties from Poonch and Bhaderwah are under review and are expected to be recommended for release at the next State Variety Release Committee meeting.
Comments are closed.