Srinagar, Aug 7 (KNS): CPI(M) leader and Kulgam MLA M Y Tarigami urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to immediately assess the damage caused by the recent windstorm and hailstorm in Shopian, provide adequate compensation to affected growers, and introduce a comprehensive crop insurance scheme for the horticulture sector.
In a statement, Tarigami said the windstorm accompanied by hail had caused extensive damage to apple orchards across more than two dozen villages in Shopian, dealing a severe blow to the livelihoods of thousands of families dependent on horticulture.
He said the destruction of orchards had left growers facing huge financial losses at a time when the apple industry remains the backbone of the local economy.
Expressing concern over the lack of a crop insurance mechanism, Tarigami said orchardists continue to bear the brunt of natural disasters without any effective financial protection.
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"Despite repeated assurances over the years, the government has failed to introduce a comprehensive crop insurance scheme for the horticulture sector. Whenever such calamities strike, growers are left to fend for themselves, while the compensation, if provided, is grossly inadequate," he said.
The MLA called on the administration to carry out an immediate assessment of the losses, ensure adequate compensation for every affected grower, and put in place a robust crop insurance scheme without any further delay to safeguard the interests of horticulturists against future disasters.(KNS).