Srinagar, Feb. 10 -- Known for its world class apple production, the north Kashmir will get model orchard nursery in Kupwara district. The mega project will be funded by NABARD to the tune of Rs.17.20 crore. North Kashmir contributes around 60 to 65% of horticulture produce and thousands of people are directly or indirectly dependent on horticulture which contributes almost 8% of our GDP. Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) chief spokesperson Inam Un Nabi welcomed the approval terming it a positive outcome of sustained political intervention and follow-up. He said that the development of model orchard-cum-nursery (Public Sector) at Watayan, Chogal, Kupwara has been approved at a cost of Rs.17.20 crore, with funding committed under the NABARD scheme. "This project was initially taken up by Baramulla MP Er Rashid, who consistently pushed for strengthening public-sector horticulture infrastructure in the region. The project was later actively pursued at multiple levels by MLA Langate, whose follow-up ensured that the proposal moved from approval to tendering," he said, adding that this project will play an important role in improving quality nursery production, supporting orchardists, and creating employment opportunities for local youth....