Tauseef Ahmad
Bandipora Apr 03:- Gurez had always been a hidden gem, surrounded by mountains and inaccessible due to the lack of infrastructure and connectivity. Despite its challenges, the locals had been working hard to cultivate the land and produce high-quality vegetables and potatoes.
The fame of Gurez’s potato production had spread to the global food industry, and one of the world’s biggest snack companies, Pepsico, had set its sights on the valley. The company had announced its decision to procure Gurez’s potato crop for making its popular Lays chips.
The news had come as a surprise to the locals, who had never expected global attention to their little valley. It was a moment of pride for them as they realized the value of their hard work and perseverance.
Speaking with the Kashmir Despatch Correspondent over phone locals while thanking authorities said that it was only possible as the district Administration is now paying attention towards people of Gurez.The farmers of the area earlier had been struggling to find a proper market for their produce, leading them to appeal to the government for help several times.
The valley of Gurez has been known for its fertile land and the production of various vegetables, including the famous potatoes,Black Cumin etc.
“We are working very hard ,despite various challenges, of heavy snowfall, road closure to cultivate our land and produce high-quality potatoes,also in finding buyers for our production, leading to significant financial losses every year, now we expect that we will get buyers here this will increase employment in our area,”said a local farmer Mohd Ramzan.
Earlier Director SKUAST kashmir university said,”Will provide machines to local youths which will make potato chips with jeera flavor,which will improve the economy of the region”.
Giving details Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Dr Owais Ahmad, said that Gurez is more than just a place for agriculture. Its beauty and stories are steeped in history and legend, making it a favorite destination for those seeking to explore the unknown. The valley has been a bastion of growing quality potatoes for generations, and it is believed that the tough terrain kept the valley mostly closed from the rest of the world during the winter months, making potatoes the lone source of staple food crop of the valley.
He said that Agriculture Research & Extension Station, of SKUAST-Kashmir are evaluating various high yielding lines of potato for Gurez valley under its Potato Research Program under Gurez conditions. We are in touch with the welfare of people .
“The prodigious amount of sweet potatoes beneath the lush green landscape of Gurez valley attracted Pepsico India ltd,”he added.
The locals hailed the efforts of the District Administration for the betterment of the border valley of Gurez and hoped the move will provide employment opportunities for the local youths.
