Jammu, March 30, 2026 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday firmly opposed any move allowing indiscriminate felling of walnut trees, warning that it could seriously damage the Union Territory’s economy and ecological identity.
🌰 Massive Economic Contribution
Highlighting the importance of walnut cultivation, the CM said:
- J&K produces around 3.5 lakh tonnes of walnuts
- Accounts for over 90% of India’s total walnut output
He emphasized that walnut trees are not just agricultural assets but a core part of the region’s identity and livelihood.
⚖️ Bill Opposed in Assembly
The CM was responding to a private member’s bill moved by Altaf Ahmad Wani, which sought to amend laws to allow landowners free permission to cut walnut trees on their property.
Rejecting the proposal, Abdullah stated:
“While land and trees may belong to individuals, restrictions exist for valid reasons — conservation and long-term economic interests.”
⚠️ Key Concerns Raised
- Unrestricted cutting could lead to decline in walnut production
- Risk of land conversion for construction instead of replantation
- Long-term loss of a major economic sector
He warned that without safeguards, walnut cultivation could become “negligible” in the future.
🌱 Proposed Safeguards
The Chief Minister suggested:
- Allow felling only with strict conditions
- Mandatory replantation with high-density walnut varieties
- No diversion of such land for other purposes
- Bringing permissions under the Public Services Guarantee Act to reduce corruption and delays
🤝 Outcome
Following the assurance of a structured future policy, MLA Altaf Ahmad Wani withdrew the bill.
