Jammu | Farmers in the Jammu region are increasingly turning to litchi cultivation under the high-density plantation (HDP) programme, attracted by better yields and annual earnings of around Rs 24,000 to Rs 30,000 from a kanal of land, officials said.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has set a target of converting over 3,200 kanals of conventional litchi orchards into high-density plantations over the next few years to boost productivity and farmers' income, they noted.

"Farmers in the region are increasingly turning to the cultivation of litchi under the HDP programme. Farmers can earn an annual income of around Rs 24,000 to Rs 30,000 from a kanal (0.125 acre) of land. Apart from its profitability, litchi also has significant nutritional value," Director Horticulture Jammu Gul Syed told PTI.

Scores of farmers have taken up the cultivation of the litchi in vast lands on the outskirts of Jammu city, officials added.

Syed said the administration would provide all necessary support to growers, including assistance in the marketing of litchi and other fruits.

He added that Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has appreciated the role of progressive farmers in encouraging small and marginal farmers to diversify towards high-value horticulture crops.

"To promote litchi cultivation and improve productivity, the Horticulture Department is extending subsidies under various schemes," he said, adding that farmers adopting high-density plantation techniques are being provided subsidies of up to 50 per cent, which has encouraged many growers to establish litchi orchards on a larger scale.

"Litchi cultivation performs best in areas with assured irrigation facilities and adequate water availability. Farmers should take up the crop in such locations to achieve better results," Syed said.

He said litchi is gaining popularity not only because of its profitability but also due to its nutritional value.

"The fruit is rich in carbohydrates, natural sugars, vitamin C, potassium and several micronutrients, besides containing antioxidants beneficial for health".

"A single litchi fruit can provide nearly nine per cent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C," he said.

The director said the department is providing technical guidance, quality planting material and other support services to improve production and productivity.

"Micro-irrigation systems are also being promoted, alongside high-density plantation techniques." According to Syed, incentives have encouraged more farmers to adopt litchi cultivation and increase their income. Areas such as Marh and RS Pura, where irrigation facilities are readily available, are witnessing a significant expansion of litchi orchards.

He said the department is also organising training programmes on scientific litchi cultivation, orchard management, pruning and high-density plantation methods to help farmers maximise returns.

"The objective of these initiatives is to strengthen the horticulture sector and enhance farmers' income. More growers should avail themselves of these schemes and adopt modern cultivation practices," he added.