Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Apr 8: National Conference (NC) leader and Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad today voiced serious concern over the extensive damage caused to orchards and crops by a sudden hailstorm in parts of South Kashmir, particularly in Kulgam and Shopian districts.
In a statement, the MP said the intense and unexpected hailstorm swept through dozens of villages, leaving a trail of devastation and severely impacting standing crops. He noted that apple orchards, which form the backbone of the local economy, have suffered significant losses, especially with damage reported to apple blossoms at the onset of the new horticulture season.
Mian Altaf said that apple farming is the primary source of livelihood for a majority of families in these districts, and such large-scale damage has pushed farmers into distress. “The timing of the hailstorm has made the situation particularly alarming, as it has struck just when the new crop cycle begins,” he said, adding that recovery without adequate support would be extremely difficult for the affected growers.
Calling for urgent intervention, the MP urged the Government to provide immediate relief to the farmers, including fair compensation for the losses incurred and prompt disbursement of financial assistance. He also stressed the need for implementing a comprehensive crop insurance scheme to safeguard farmers against such natural calamities in the future.
He added that the issue of crop insurance has already been raised with the Union Government and reiterated the need for swift action to protect the interests of the farming community.
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