Srinagar, Feb 27 (KNS): Former Member of Parliament and National Conference leader Ghulam Nabi Ratanpuri today said that the Kashmir valley is facing scarcity of tree spray oil which has been created by selective action against two popular brands.
“Some of the brands available in market are now selling in black market. I'm given to understand that the targeted brands too have applied for licence to the competent authority (Central Insecticides Board) like the brands that are available in the market. The Board due to some technicality has not been able issue or deny the licence to any of the applicants,” Ratanpuri said in a statement to KNS.
The statement gains significance given the ongoing season for spraying of oil on apple and other fruit orchards in the Valley.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The NC leader said that last year in a similar situation the High Court intervened and directed the government to allow the sale of all such spray oils where request for licence was made but, it has not been granted and not even denied.
“In spite of this order having been implemented last year in letter and spirit, some officials of the Agriculture Department chose to stop the sale of a particular popular brand thus creating scarcity and an opportunity of profiteering for some,” he said.
“I hope the Advisor to Governor, Khursheed Ahmad Ganai will intervene to ensure that the farmers get the product of their choice,” he said. (KNS)