NewzVille Desk
The Fruit Growers Association Prichoo, Pulwama, today held a press conference and demanded the implementation of a comprehensive crop insurance scheme across Jammu and Kashmir to safeguard orchardists from weather-related losses.
Addressing the media, members of the association expressed concern over recent hailstorms and adverse weather conditions that have caused extensive damage to orchards in several parts of Kashmir.
They said fruit growers invest significant resources and effort throughout the year in maintaining orchards, but a single hailstorm can destroy crops within minutes, resulting in substantial financial losses.
The association said horticulture is the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy and provides livelihood opportunities to a large section of the population. According to the growers, a major portion of the rural economy is directly or indirectly dependent on the horticulture sector, making it essential to introduce measures that protect orchardists from natural calamities.
The growers urged the government to introduce a dedicated and farmer-friendly crop insurance scheme covering all horticultural crops across Jammu and Kashmir.
They said such a mechanism would provide financial security to growers and help them recover from losses caused by hailstorms, heavy rains, windstorms and other adverse weather events.
The association also called for substantial subsidies on anti-hail nets, describing them as an effective tool for protecting orchards from hail damage.
It demanded that growers in hail-prone areas be given priority in the distribution and installation of anti-hail nets to reduce future losses.
The members further appealed to the administration and the Horticulture Department to conduct a detailed assessment of recent crop damage and ensure timely compensation to affected farmers. They said adequate support and protection mechanisms are necessary to safeguard the interests of orchardists and strengthen the horticulture sector.
The association reiterated that protecting horticulture is vital for the economic stability of Jammu and Kashmir and urged the government to take immediate steps to address the concerns of fruit growers.
