The Nuts and Dry Fruit Council of India (NDFC (I)) has launched a walnut plantation initiative at Chakrata in Uttarakhand aimed at introducing grafted walnut plants in India by planting 300 saplings.

The programme seeks to reinforce domestic nut production, reduce reliance on imports and create economic opportunities for local farmers, said a press note.

The initiative is intended to usher in an increase in the nut production of the region, and serves as the stepping stone for a 3-year project that would subsequently encompass over 1,000 cultivators. Besides 300 saplings, the programme will provide comprehensive support to the farmers for in-depth training on optimal plantation techniques, including proper care and maintenance during critical growth stages.

Turkey saplings

The high-yielding saplings have been provisioned from a Turkish horticultural company, AGRONOM, and imported by an Indian counterpart, Kalason Nursery. As NDFC (I) gears up for the 2nd edition of MEWA in February, the initiative marks a cornerstone in the attempt to popularise and increase production of nuts in India.

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NDFC (I) is collaborating with WANGAI (Walnuts and other Nut Fruit Growers Association of India), an organisation promoting the cultivation of nuts. The collaborative effort seeks to position India as a leading producer and exporter of walnuts and subsequently delve into other nut categories.

Achin Aggarwal, Chair, Committee for Agriculture and Farmers Connect at NDFC (I), said, “We hope to cater to the growing popularity and demand for walnuts. As India and the world moves towards a healthier lifestyle, we hope that the initiative will help expand the walnut production base. The introduction of grafted walnut plants should also spur a slate of innovation and research that would further increase yield and production.”