Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Karewas, locally known as 'Vudr' in Kashmir, are distinctive geomorphological features primarily found in the Kashmir Valley and the Bhadarwah Valley of the Jammu Division. These elevated tablelands are vital lacustrine deposits, embodying a rich geological history from the Pleistocene period. Their unique formation processes have endowed them with highly fertile soils, making them critical not only for understanding past environments and human civilizations but also for sustaining the agricultural economy of the region. This answer will delineate their formation and location and subsequently underscore their profound economic significance.
Location and Physical Formation of Karewas
Karewas are primarily located in the intermontane Kashmir Valley, situated between the Pir Panjal Range and the Great Himalayas, as well as in the Bhadarwah Valley of the Jammu Division. These flat-topped mounds are extensive deposits of unconsolidated to semi-consolidated sediments, presenting as plateau-like terraces above the plains of the Jhelum River and its tributaries.
Formation Process:
- Pleistocene Origin: Karewas were formed during the Pleistocene period (approximately 2.6 million to 11,700 years ago) when the entire Kashmir Valley was submerged under a vast lake.
- Glacial and Lacustrine Deposits: The upliftment of the Pir Panjal range during this era blocked the drainage of rivers, leading to the formation of a large lake. Over millions of years, glacial clay, silt, sand, mud, lignite, gravel, and loessic sediments accumulated in this lake basin.
- Drainage and Denudation: Later, due to tectonic forces and the formation of the Baramulla Gorge, the lake drained, leaving behind these thick, unconsolidated deposits. Subsequent subaerial denudation and the action of the Jhelum River have further dissected and shaped these karewas into their present elevated positions.
- Composition: These deposits are characterized by a mix of different soil and sediments, including sand, clay, silt, shale, mud, lignite, gravel, and loess sediments. They also contain fossils of mammals and peat in some locations, offering valuable insights into past climatic conditions and environments.
Economic Significance of Karewas
The unique soil composition and moisture-retaining qualities of Karewas render them exceptionally fertile and economically crucial for the Jammu and Kashmir region, primarily in agriculture and horticulture.
1. Saffron Cultivation:
- World-Renowned Saffron: Karewas are famously known for the cultivation of 'Zafran,' or Kashmir saffron, particularly in the Pampore region, often referred to as the 'Saffron Town of Kashmir.'
- Unique Characteristics: Kashmir saffron possesses distinct qualities such as longer and thicker stigmas, a natural deep-red color, high aroma, and a bitter flavor, attributed to the unique soil and climatic conditions of the karewas. It is the only saffron cultivated at an elevation of 1,600 to 1,800 meters above mean sea level.
- GI Tag: In 2020, Kashmir saffron received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, boosting its market value and protecting its unique identity, thereby significantly benefiting local growers.
2. Horticulture:
- Apple Orchards: The fertile karewa soils are highly suitable for growing temperate fruits, especially apples. Jammu & Kashmir is India's primary apple-producing region, with a substantial portion of its horticulture land under apple cultivation (around 1.6 lakh hectares, making up over 67% of the horticulture land in the UT). The cool climate and well-drained soils of karewas contribute to the quality of these apples.
- Almond and Walnut Cultivation: Karewas also support the cultivation of almonds and walnuts, which are significant cash crops. Although almond cultivation has seen a decline due to various factors, karewas remain crucial for their traditional production.
- Other Cash Crops: Besides these, various other cash crops thrive on karewa lands, contributing to the livelihoods of thousands of farm families.
3. Agricultural Livelihoods:
- Diverse Agriculture: Beyond specific cash crops, the fertile nature of karewa soils supports a variety of agricultural activities, providing a primary source of livelihood for a significant portion of the rural population in the Kashmir Valley. Crops like maize and oilseeds are also cultivated on these lands.
- Employment Generation: The agricultural and horticultural activities on karewas create substantial employment opportunities, from cultivation and harvesting to processing and marketing of produce.
4. Archaeological and Scientific Importance:
- Paleo-environmental Studies: Rich in fossils and remnants of ancient human civilizations, karewas serve as an invaluable archive for archaeologists and geologists. They provide crucial information about past climates, geological events, and the evolution of life in the region, aiding scientific research and understanding.
Despite their immense economic and ecological importance, karewas face threats from urbanization, infrastructure development (like national highways and railway lines), and illegal extraction of clay for construction, underscoring the need for sustainable management and conservation.
Conclusion
Karewas, the lacustrine deposits of the Kashmir and Bhadarwah Valleys, represent a unique geological legacy from the Pleistocene era. Their distinctive physical formation has resulted in highly fertile lands that form the backbone of the region's agricultural economy. From the world-renowned GI-tagged saffron to extensive apple, almond, and walnut orchards, karewas significantly contribute to local livelihoods and regional prosperity. Preserving these invaluable formations is critical not only for maintaining the ecological balance and supporting agricultural practices but also for safeguarding their archaeological and scientific significance for future generations.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.