Apple Crop to Be Covered Under Insurance, Horticulture Director Announces in Kulgam
Kulgam, June 9, KNT: Apple orchards in Kashmir will be brought under insurance coverage, Director of Horticulture Kashmir Vikas Anand said while assessing hailstorm damage in Kulgam, marking a significant step aimed at protecting growers from weather-related losses.
The announcement comes in the wake of a recent hailstorm that caused damage to horticulture crops in several areas, raising concerns among orchardists over the impact on this season’s produce and incomes.
Until now, insurance coverage was largely limited to agricultural crops. The inclusion of apple orchards is expected to provide a safety net to thousands of horticulture growers who have long sought protection against losses caused by natural calamities.
During his visit, Anand reviewed the extent of damage in affected orchards and interacted with field officials overseeing the assessment process.
He said teams from the horticulture department have been deployed across all affected areas to conduct a detailed survey. The exercise is being carried out jointly with the revenue department to ensure a comprehensive assessment of losses.
According to the Director, the findings of the survey will be used to determine relief measures for affected farmers. He said assistance will be provided in accordance with the norms of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF).
The Director told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the government is committed to supporting growers affected by the hailstorm and has directed officials to complete the assessment process on priority.
The hailstorm struck at a crucial stage for horticulture crops, prompting concerns among farmers about potential economic losses. The ongoing assessment is expected to provide a clearer picture of the damage and the scale of assistance required.
The announcement on insurance coverage for apple crops is being viewed as a major development for Kashmir’s horticulture sector, which remains a key contributor to the region’s economy and livelihoods. [KNT]
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