Which Indian fruit is called Kargil Gold?

Fruits are often known as a part of balanced diet, thanks to their rich nutritional profile. But, did you know that many of the common fruits grow in adverse climatic conditions and their journey from a bud to fruit is truly commendable. One such fruit is- Apricot. Did you know this golden-orange colored fruit is also called "Kargil Gold"? Scroll down to read the details.Apricot is also called "Kargil Gold" because of its vibrant golden-orange colour and its economic and cultural significance in the Kargil region of Ladakh. It is reported that the unique climatic conditions—characterized by cold winters, sunny days, and mineral-rich soil—reportedly create ideal conditions for cultivating sweet and flavorful apricots. Also, for generations, apricot cultivation has been an important source of livelihood for farmers in Kargil. The term "Kargil Gold" reflects both the fruit's golden appearance and its value to the local economy. According to statistics shared by Journal World, Ladakh produces 62% of India's apricots. The 2021 data states that the area under apricot cultivation is 2,303 ha with a total production of approximately 15,789 tonnes of fresh apricot and approximately 5,040 tonnes of dried apricot. In the Kargil district, the apricot area has increased by 9.4%, while it has decreased by 16.9% in the Leh district. Majority of apricot production is consumed locally, and a small quantity in dried form is sold outside Ladakh. The inefficient production and processing techniques coupled with an unorganized sector lead to 40-60 percent of apricot production being wasted. Apricots with white flesh and sweet kernels grow best in dry temperate areas up to 3000 meters above mean sea level, whereas yellow flesh apricots with bitter kernels require slightly warm climatic conditions and are grown at 1,000 to 1,500 meters above mean sea level. For better fruit settings, long, cool winters with a frost-free period are required. According to Tanya Kapoor, nutritionist, Wellness by Tanya, "Apricots are good for eye health, due to their carotenoid content, including beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A." She adds, "The fiber content of the fruit aid digestion and support gut health, while its potassium content contributes to maintaining healthy blood pressure levels." Also, the antioxidants in apricot may have anti-inflammatory properties and could help protect against chronic diseases associated with oxidative damage. The same report states that the apricot fruit is consumed as fresh and are preserved by drying, canning, freezing, and as baby food. Fruits are also used in making wine, brandy and jam. Kernels are used for edible purposeswhile seed oil is used in the pharmaceutical, food and cosmetics industries. Fruits contain a number of desirable secondary metabolites for human health. Antioxidant activity is quite high due to its rich polyphenolic content. Apricot is rich in carbohydrates, fibers, minerals, vitamins (A, C, K, and E), protein, soluble sugars, carotenoids, phenolics, pectin, fatty acids, and minerals. Fruit consumption maintains blood sugar, lowers blood cholesterol and body weight.Per 100 gms of fresh apricot offers, 48 calories, 11 g cabrs, 2 g fiber, 1.4 g protein, 96 mcg vitamin A, 10 mg vitamin C, and around 259 mg potassium. Eat them fresh: One of the simplest ways is to enjoy fresh apricots as a mid-morning or evening snack.Add to salads: If you are a salad person, combine apricots with watermelon, muskmelon, berries, and mint for a refreshing summer fruit salad.Use in smoothies: Apricots also make for a refreshing addition to smoothies. All you need to do is, add fresh apricots to milk-based fruit smoothies for natural sweetness and extra nutrition.Apricot Chutney: It is a sweet and tangy condiment made with apricot, sugar, salt, vinegar, onion and spices and can be served with parathas, sandwiches, or grilled dishes.Apricot Iced tea: Beat the heat with a chilled sip of apricot iced tea, made with apricot syrup, tea brew, and ice cubes.