The Nuts and Dry Fruit Council of India (NDFC) has initiated an ambitious walnut plantation programme in Chakrata, Uttarakhand, planting 300 grafted seedlings across three villages on 28-29 December. This marks the first introduction of grafted walnut plants in India, aiming to boost domestic nut production, reduce import dependency, and create economic opportunities for local farmers.
The project involves over 70 farmers and is a stepping stone in a three-year initiative expected to benefit more than 1,000 cultivators. Alongside planting, the programme provides farmers with training in advanced plantation techniques, ensuring proper care during critical growth stages. High-yielding saplings have been sourced from Turkish horticultural firm AGRONOM and imported by Kalason Nursery in India.
Speaking about the initiative, Achin Aggarwal, Chair, Committee for Agriculture and Farmers Connect at NDFC(I) stated, “With this initiative, 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. Beyond expanding production, the initiative will assist in the economy of the region and we hope that in the coming years, it becomes a major exporting location for Walnuts. The introduction of Grafted walnut plants should also spur a slate of innovation and research that would further increase yield and production.”
In collaboration with WANGAI (Walnuts and other Nut Fruit Growers Association of India), NDFC(I) aims to position India as a global leader in walnut production and export. The effort also seeks to diversify into other nut categories, enhancing India’s agricultural landscape.
As NDFC(I) prepares for the second edition of MEWA in February 2025, this initiative underscores its commitment to long-term sustainability. Plans include establishing world-class nut nurseries to provide farmers with continuous access to high-yielding plants.
This transformative project is set to revitalise the local economy by increasing walnut production, generating jobs, and empowering communities in the Chakrata and Tuni regions. With a focus on innovation and growth, the initiative is poised to redefine India’s nut production landscape.
