Srinagar, Nov. 18 -- Walking through a dwindling orchard in Budgam, farmer Bashir Ahmad Bhat surveys the thinning rows of almond trees with a heavy heart.

"These trees have been in my family for generations," he said, tracing his fingers along a barren branch. "But now, the market is flooded with California almonds. Buyers prefer them-they're cheaper, more abundant. It's hard to compete."

Once a known almond grower in the area, Bhat has shifted to apple cultivation, which also didn't benefit them.

"Almonds were weather-proof. We end up spending a huge sum on spraying and maintenance of the apple crop, and yet it doesn't give us enough profit," he said.

The once-thriving almond orchards of Kashmir are witnessing a steep decline, as Cal...