Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Apr 20: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) today demanded an immediate assessment of losses and compensation for fruit growers across Kashmir.
In a statement, KCCI expressed concern over the substantial losses suffered by fruit growers following recent severe weather conditions and flash floods which have caused devastating damage.
“As per reports, numerous fruit orchards throughout the districts of Shopian, Kulgam, Bandipora, Baramulla, Ganderbal, Budgam, Pulwama, and other areas of the Valley experienced catastrophic damage from intense hailstorms accompanied by lightning, thunderstorms and powerful winds,” KCCI said.
The trade body said it has been advocating for the introduction of a comprehensive crop insurance scheme for several years.
“The Chamber has submitted detailed proposals to highlight the urgent necessity of such protection for the region’s agricultural sector.”
The absence of a crop insurance scheme, it said, has significantly compounded the challenges faced by orchard owners.
“The recent weather events have devastated the hopes of fruit growers and dealers across the Valley, creating not only immediate hardships for orchard owners /fruit growers but also triggering wider economic repercussions throughout the horticulture sector.”
KCCI has called upon the Government to immediately conduct a thorough assessment of the damages incurred across all affected districts.
“We request that the administration should provide prompt and adequate compensation to affected farmers, particularly the marginal growers who lack the financial reserves to absorb such catastrophic losses.”
KCCI has urged the administration to expedite the implementation of a comprehensive crop insurance program tailored to the specific needs of Kashmir’s fruit industry.
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