The prevailing unrest in Jammu and Kashmir is playing spoilsport for the dry fruits business in the Kashmir Valley during the auspicious Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.

Different varieties of dry fruits like dates, almonds, coconut, cashew nuts, pistachios, and raisins are eaten in the early hours of the morning before the fast commences.

These items are also used to garnish many delicacies like, pulav, halwa and pherni.

Clashes between locals and security forces in the Valley have had an adverse effect on the religious fervour of Muslims in the region.

"This year, due to the prevailing situation, every field has got affected negatively, be it education or trade," claimed Yawar, a local.

"This year due to curfew and strike the trade is affected. Last year we earned near about 1,00,000 to 2,00,000 lakh rupees but this year some day shop is opened and next day closed," said Abdul Rashid, a shopkeeper. By Parvez Butt (ANI)