Water chestnut, known as goer, is an aquatic vegetable found in Wular Lake.
High demand for water chestnuts in autumn.
Water chestnut harvesting is a significant source of income for families living around Wular Lake.
Harvesting process Begins in late September.
Involves both men and women from nearby villages.
Conducted in shikaras and other boats.
Labor-intensive process.
Requires caution due to sharp spines on the plants.
Many people sell the chestnuts immediately after harvest.
Others dry and process them for higher prices.
Uses of water chestnut:
Edible kernel is peeled, dried, and pounded into flour.
Dried outer shells are used as fuel for kangri.
Dietary significance:
Eaten during Navaratri fasting rituals.
Easily digestible and provides energy.
Trade and economic impact:
Trade is mainly handled by the poorer section of society.
Not regulated or registered by the government.
Significant economic activity besides tourism and fishing.
Challenges:
Dry weather and increasing marshy land have negatively affected production.
Tedious and requires caution due to sharp spines.
Water chestnut is a nutritious and easily digestible food.
Wular Lake is One of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia.
Wular Lake is the largest freshwater lake in India
Bandipora district, northern Kashmir.
In ancient times, Wular Lake was also called Mahapadmasar
The lake basin was formed as a result of tectonic activity and is fed by the Jhelum River and stream Madhumati and Arin
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