Shopian: The historic village of Heerpura, nestled along the Mughal Road in Shopian, Kashmir, has long been celebrated for its premium red potatoes. Known for their distinctive color and exceptional taste, these potatoes were once a hallmark of the region’s agriculture and a staple across the Kashmir Valley.
However, Hirpora’s famed red potatoes are now on the verge of extinction. Farmers and agricultural experts attribute this decline to shifting climate patterns, insufficient support for traditional farming methods, and the introduction of alternative crop varieties.
Heerpura, once a thriving hub for red potato cultivation, has seen a drastic reduction in production in recent years. This has left local farmers grappling to maintain a crop that they believe is integral to the region’s economy and agricultural heritage.
“These potatoes are a part of our identity,” said one local farmer. “If we lose them, we lose a piece of Hirpora.”
Farmers are urging the government and agricultural bodies to step in and assist in reviving the red potato cultivation through sustainable farming practices and dedicated support to traditional farmers. They believe that with the right intervention, the iconic red potatoes of Hirpora could not only boost the local economy but also preserve a vital part of the village’s cultural and agricultural identity.
Local authorities have yet to comment on potential revival efforts, but the call for action grows louder as Hirpora’s farmers fight to save their legacy.
