Srinagar, April 7 -- A new trend is unfolding in Kashmir with farmers and horticulturists embracing exotic apple plant varieties over traditional ones.

This surge in interest is reshaping the agricultural landscape of the region, known for its traditional apple cultivation.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift towards cultivating exotic varieties of apples, spurred by changing consumer preferences and evolving market dynamics.

Varieties including Red Velox, Pink Lady, Redlum Gala, Scarlet II, Golden Delicious, and Jeromine qare ruling the roost in Kashmir these days.

These varieties, known for their distinctive flavors, textures, and extended shelf life, are increasingly finding favor among consumers both domestically an...