The apple orchards of Kashmir, once the pride of the Valley and a cornerstone of its rural economy, are facing an unprecedented threat — not from market forces or pests alone, but from the mounting crisis of climate change. The changing weather patterns, erratic rainfall, unseasonal snowfall, and prolonged dry spells have begun to disrupt the delicate rhythm upon which Kashmir’s famed apple industry depends. For decades, the “Kashmiri apple” has symbolised not only the Valley’s agricultural richness but also its cultural identity. Generations of farmers have relied on predictable seasons — the gentle bloom of spring, moderate summer warmth, and a crisp autumn harvest. But in recent years, this pattern has been upended. Late frosts damage the blossoms, early rains trigger fungal diseases like scab, and unexpected heat waves affect fruit size and quality. The apple, once resilient, is now a victim of volatility. This environmental turbulence translates directly into economic distress. With nearly 70 percent of Kashmir’s population linked directly or indirectly to horticulture, even a slight dip in yield reverberates across livelihoods. In 2023 and 2024, farmers reported reduced harvests and higher input costs due to the need for additional pesticides and irrigation. The losses are not just agricultural; they are deeply human — eroding incomes, deepening debt, and shaking confidence in a way of life that has endured for centuries. Scientists warn that if the warming trend continues, the Valley could become unsuitable for apple cultivation in coming decades. Lower-altitude orchards are already showing stress, forcing some farmers to consider shifting towards walnuts, cherries, or even saffron. Yet such transitions are neither easy nor guaranteed to provide the same stability that apples once did. What Kashmir’s apple sector urgently needs is a comprehensive climate adaptation plan. Research institutions must work closely with farmers to introduce climate-resilient varieties, improve pest management, and promote water-efficient irrigation systems. The government’s crop insurance schemes must be made more accessible and responsive to weather-related losses. Above all, a robust network for weather forecasting and early warning can help farmers prepare for the unexpected. The climate crisis is no longer a distant possibility — it is an unfolding reality in Kashmir’s orchards. If urgent steps are not taken, the Valley’s apple — once a symbol of prosperity and pride — may become a casualty of our collective inaction. The time to act is now, before the climate strips Kashmir of its sweetest heritage.