Srinagar, June 11 (KNS):Renowned Social and Political activist Malik Tariq Rashid has expressed grave concerns over the shrinking of Kashmir's fruit economy. Today, while interacting with a group of Cherry Growers at Parimpora Mandi, Malik was appraised about the prevailing circumstances that have badly affected the Agrarian sector of Kashmir valley. The growers group said, "Kashmir cherry has a whopping Rs. 160 market. The demand for the fruit from all across the country remains always high than its production. Cherry, being of perishable nature, needs to be marketed immediately with utmost care. But, ironically, we do not get the much needed support from the Government".
Malik, in a statement issued to KNS said, "Ho rhi sector is a source of livelihood for 3.3 million people. It is being considered as the backbone of Kashmir Economy. But, to our dismay, consecutive lockdowns and inclement weather have taken a heavy toll on the production and the consequent marketing, thereof." The canning units are closed due to Covid that has directly affected the marketing of our World famous Cherry fruit, Malik added.
"From pesticides to fertilizers, spraying schedule to harvesting, marketing to the frequent blocking of the only Highway; the concerned departments have been very much lethargic to provide all the needed support to the people related to the vital industry", reads the statement.
Malik further added that the Growers are the worst hit among the all. Their blood and sweat, that they put in while toiling hard, day in and day out; are left at the Mercy of God. Malik requested the LG administration of J&K Union Territory to reassess all the available options to streamline the functioning of the related sectors scientifically, to save our fruit economy from further losses.(KNS)