Srinagar, Aug. 17 -- The threat is particularly acute in Kashmir's high-density apple plantations, where soil health is critical for sustained yields. Using fake vermicompost here can cause irreversible damage to orchard productivity.

A silent but dangerous agricultural crisis is brewing in the Valley. Farmers, especially in the high-density apple sector, are increasingly concerned about the surge of fake vermicompost-cheap imitations that look authentic but are destroying soil health.

Genuine vermicompost, produced through earthworm-based decomposition, enriches the soil, boosts crop yields, and is a cornerstone of sustainable farming. However, the market is now saturated with products made through acid decomposition or by processing u...