Srinagar, March 1 -- A fresh spell of much-needed snowfall has brought a sigh of relief to apple growers and other farmers in Kashmir.

Staring at drought-like conditions, thenew spell of wet weather has raised hopes for a bountiful harvest this year.

The recent dry spell had caused concern among agricultural communities, but the timely precipitation has replenished water sources and revitalized orchards.

For nearly one and a half months, farmers were concerned about the lack of rainfall, which posed risks to apple orchards. The dry conditions had started affecting soil quality, while concerns about inadequate chilling hours-essential for proper bud formation-were mounting.

However, the ongoing spell of rain in the plains and snowfall ...