HD plant imports: Let Horticulture Dept be a guardian, not a gardener

The recent decision by the Directorate of Horticulture, Kashmir, to directly import high-density fruit plants seems to be an intervention based on plausible reasons. Faced with growing complaints from orchardists about the arbitrariness, delays and substandard quality of saplings supplied by approved private companies, the government has rightly stepped in to protect the interests of thousands of farmers.

The department’s candid acknowledgement of the failures in the current system, including the supply of diseased, canker-infected plants in districts like Pulwama, reflects the department’s increasing responsiveness. By deciding to import not only high-density apple saplings but also walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts and cherries, the department is recognising the broader shift in Kashmir’s horticulture from traditional models to modern, high-efficiency practices. The plan to establish nurseries under a central scheme further strengthens this effort.

That said, while this is a welcome corrective move, the government must tread cautiously.

The state’s role should ideally be that of a regulator and facilitator, not a long-term commercial competitor. Excessive involvement in procurement and direct sales risks crowding out private enterprise, deterring investment  and ultimately breeding inefficiency. While some private companies have undoubtedly failed orchardists and deserve scrutiny, and even sanctions,  others have played a key role in introducing high-density technologies, technical know-how  and international collaborations.

Instead of permanently replacing private actors, the government should aim to discipline the market, raise standards and ensure transparent quality assurance mechanisms. Introducing third-party certification, strengthening quarantine checks and ensuring post-planting support could be more sustainable solutions. A healthy partnership between regulated private suppliers and a vigilant government is essential.

In sum, the Department of Horticulture’s move to break the monopoly and protect farmers from exploitation is commendable. But in the longer run, reforming the system to make both public and private actors accountable, not replacing one with the other, will best serve Kashmir’s orchardists and the economy built around them.

Let the government be a guardian, not a gardener.