Urban Vegetable Clusters as Engines of Sustainable Urban Livelihood: A Case Study of Narkara, Srinagar

Abstract

This study examines the socio-economic viability and sustainability of vegetable cultivation in urban clusters, focusing on the Narkara belt of Srinagar city in Jammu & Kashmir. The research identifies the role of peri-urban agriculture in enhancing food security, reducing poverty, and generating employment. Primary data from 60 urban vegetable growers and market functionaries were analyzed using both descriptive and analytical methods. Findings highlight how vegetable farming contributes substantially to household income and nutrition, and how institutional support and market reforms could enhance its performance. Recommendations for urban agricultural policy are proposed.

Introduction

Urban and peri-urban agriculture is increasingly vital for food security, income generation, and sustainability, especially in fast-growing cities like Srinagar. The Narkara cluster in Budgam district exemplifies how localized vegetable farming can enhance livelihoods, reduce supply chain inefficiencies, and support sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Key Findings:

1. Importance of Urban Agriculture

• Driven by rising urban food demand and land-use change.

• Supports SDGs:

  • SDG 1: No Poverty

  • SDG 2: Zero Hunger

  • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

2. Study Context & Methodology

• Study Area: Narkara cluster (7–9 km from Srinagar)

• Sample: 60 farmers + 20 market intermediaries

• Tools: Structured interviews and Sustainable Livelihoods Framework

3. Major Outcomes

• Land Use: Average holding of 0.85 ha; >90% under vegetables

• Crops: Brinjal, cabbage, spinach, onion, peas

• Cropping Intensity: >300% due to multiple cycles

• Income: Vegetable farming provides over 70% of household income, with annual earnings ranging from INR 1.2–3.5 lakhs

• Livelihood Impact:

  • Enhances dietary diversity and food security

  • Encourages women’s participation in agriculture

  • Supports expenses like healthcare and education

4. Challenges

• Lack of infrastructure: Cold storage, transportation

• Market dependence: Reliance on intermediaries

• Financial gaps: Limited credit access, no crop insurance

• Technical support: Inadequate agricultural extension services

Policy Recommendations

• Develop cold chain infrastructure and local markets

• Promote farmer cooperatives and direct-to-consumer sales

• Expand microcredit and insurance coverage

• Improve urban-focused training and extension support

• Integrate urban agriculture in city planning to ensure land access

Conclusion

Urban vegetable clusters like Narkara play a pivotal role in ensuring urban food security, livelihood improvement, and environmental sustainability. Despite facing infrastructural and institutional bottlenecks, the sector demonstrates high potential for growth and policy integration. Future urban development strategies must prioritize urban agriculture as a resilient food and livelihood system.

References

FAO (2015). The State of Food Insecurity in the World. - UNDP (1996). Urban Agriculture: Food, Jobs and Sustainable Cities. - Lal & Sharma (2017). Urban Agriculture in J&K: Potential and Constraints. - Weinberger & Lumpkin (2005). Horticulture for Poverty Alleviation. - Sehreen (2025). Performance Analysis of Urban Vegetable Cluster of Srinagar City (Thesis).

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Sehreena Maqbool. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.