In Ladakh, climate change is raining on apricots, central to life and the economy

In the high-altitude desert of Ladakh, where the air is thin and the days are short, apricots are more than just a fruit, they are a lifeline. For Nusrat Rehman, a 10-year-old girl in Kargil, the summer months mean two things: school ends and apricot season begins. Each day after class, she races across the Suru River to join her community in harvesting the golden fruit that has sustained her family and neighbors for generations. But this year, the rains have come too early and too hard, threatening the delicate balance that keeps apricots thriving in the region. Ladakh, known for its harsh climate and rugged terrain, produces over 62% of India's apricot yield, according to government records. These trees are not merely ornamental; they are essential to the survival of the region's people. During the brief growing season, apricots provide nourishment, while their dried counterparts serve as a vital food source during the long, cold winters when travel is difficult and supplies are scarce. The fruit is also a key element of local culture, symbolizing resilience and connection across distances. However, climate change is altering the conditions that make apricots possible. Increased rainfall and erratic snowfall patterns are disrupting the delicate ecosystem that supports these trees. Sonam Lotus, director of the India Meteorological Department of Jammu and Kashmir, notes that last year’s heavy and sudden rainfalls caused widespread damage to apricot blossoms, reducing yields significantly. “The intensity of the rainfall is unlike anything we’ve seen before,” Lotus explains. “It affects the entire cycle of growth, making it harder for the trees to recover.” For decades, apricot cultivation has been a cornerstone of Ladakhi life. Families have passed down knowledge of how to care for these resilient trees, adapting to the challenges of the landscape. The fruit is not wasted, every part is used. Seeds are pressed into oil for cooking and medicine, while the flesh is enjoyed fresh or transformed into jams, juices, and even desserts like phating, a traditional Ladakhi treat. This self-sufficient system has allowed communities to remain largely independent, relying on their own resources rather than external supply chains. In recent years, the economic significance of apricots has grown. With increasing demand for premium quality fruits, Ladakhi apricots have found new markets beyond the region. Social enterprises such as Ladakh Orchards have helped connect remote farmers with buyers, enabling them to earn better incomes. Stanba Gyaltsan, co-founder of the initiative, describes apricots as a bridge between people and their heritage. “They’re the link to our past and our future,” he says. “Whenever we send apricots to relatives, it’s like sending a piece of home.” The trees themselves carry deep meaning. Many are planted by ancestors and have stood for generations, marking family history and land ownership. Anuja Dasgupta, another co-founder of Ladakh Orchards, emphasizes the role of traditional farming in maintaining community ties. “The labor is shared, and so is the responsibility,” she says. “There’s always a gathering, whether for planting or harvesting. It’s not just about the fruit, it’s about the people.” As climate change continues to challenge the stability of the region, the future of apricots, and the livelihoods they support, remains uncertain. Farmers are already seeing changes in weather patterns, forcing them to adapt their practices. Some are experimenting with new techniques, while others worry that the very foundation of their way of life may be at risk. For now, the focus remains on preserving what remains, ensuring that the golden fruit continues to nourish both body and spirit in the heart of Ladakh.