Fodder Crops: Winter fodder.

Saffron: A high-value spice crop, unique to Kashmir (Pampore region), harvested in autumn (Sept-Oct).

Horticultural Crops (Perennial, not strictly seasonal but yield periods vary): J&K is famous for these.

Fruits: Apples, pears, cherries, apricots, walnuts, almonds, peaches, plums, grapes.
Vegetables: Cabbage, cauliflower, potato, tomato, onion, garlic.
Spices: Saffron, cumin, fennel.

10. How does horticulture contribute to the state economy?

Horticulture plays a crucial role in the economy of Jammu and Kashmir, contributing significantly to its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) and providing livelihoods to a large segment of the population:

Major Source of Income and Employment: Horticulture is a primary source of income for a large number of farmers, especially in the Kashmir Valley and parts of Jammu. It provides direct and indirect employment throughout the year, from cultivation, harvesting, grading, packaging, transportation, to processing.
High-Value Crops: Fruits like apples, pears, cherries, apricots, and walnuts are high-value crops, generating substantial revenue compared to traditional field crops. Saffron, a unique and expensive spice, also contributes significantly.
Export Potential: J&K's horticultural products, particularly apples and dry fruits, have a strong demand in national and international markets, leading to significant export earnings and foreign exchange.
Support to Allied Industries: The horticulture sector fuels several allied industries such as fruit processing (juices, jams, dried fruits), cold storage, packaging, transportation, and agricultural machinery, creating a diversified economic ecosystem.
Rural Development: By providing sustainable livelihoods and higher incomes to rural communities, horticulture helps in poverty alleviation and improves the living standards of farmers.
Tourism Linkage: The scenic orchards and fruit gardens attract tourists, especially during blooming and harvesting seasons, indirectly boosting the tourism sector.
Environmental Benefits: Orchards and fruit crops contribute to green cover, soil conservation, and biodiversity, which are vital for the ecological balance of the region.

11. Define minerals. What are various metallic and non-metallic minerals found in Jammu and Kashmir?

Definition of Minerals: A mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic substance with a definite chemical composition and a characteristic crystalline structure. They are formed through geological processes and are the building blocks of rocks.

Minerals Found in Jammu and Kashmir: Jammu and Kashmir is known more for its scenic beauty and horticulture than for extensive mineral resources, but it does possess some significant deposits:

Metallic Minerals:

Bauxite: Found in the Udhampur and Poonch districts. It is the primary ore for aluminium.
Copper: Scattered occurrences in areas like Reasi, Doda, and Ladakh.
Lead and Zinc: Minor occurrences reported in parts of the Zanskar range and Udhampur.
Iron Ore: Small deposits of low-grade iron ore are found in Reasi and Udhampur districts.
Chromite: Found in limited quantities in Ladakh.

Non-Metallic Minerals:

Coal: Significant reserves of lignite and bituminous coal are found in the Jammu region (Kalakot, Metka, Sair, Chakar). This is one of the most important mineral resources of the region.
Limestone: Abundant and widely distributed across various districts (Kathua, Udhampur, Reasi, Anantnag, Baramulla). It is crucial for cement production and building materials.
Gypsum: Found in Doda, Baramulla, and Poonch districts.