Srinagar, May 23 (KNS): The Director of Horticulture, Kashmir, Vikas Ananad on Saturday advised fruit growers to mechanically remove damaged portions of apple, pear, and cherry crops, attributing the loss to carbon dioxide injury.

Speaking to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) after a visit to the outskirts of Sopore, Anand said an advisory has been issued regarding spray schedules based on weather forecasts. "If there is no rain in the next two days, we should spray. But if it rains again tomorrow, we should not spray it. If there is rain in the next four to five days, spraying is advisable," the director said.

He further outlined financial assistance for orchard modernization.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel"Under the HADP scheme, there is a budget of Rs 6 lakh per hectare for traditional orchards to convert them into high-density ones. Anti-hail net is mandatory for high-density orchards," Vikas said, adding that the centrally sponsored MIDH scheme provides assistance at the rate of Rs 2,875 per square metre for traditional orchards.

When asked how growers who have suffered losses can seek help, the director said all district-wise phone numbers have been issued and are functional 24x7. "If there is no response anywhere, my number is also available on the website. All the brothers have it. They can also call me," Anand added. (KNS)