Farmers, Local Representatives Demand Immediate Compensation, Robust Crop Insurance
Shopian: A fierce storm accompanied by heavy rain and gusty winds devastated apple orchards across several villages in Shopian district on Thursday, destroying crop-laden branches just weeks before the annual harvest. Orchardists in Hermain, Kaprin, Mantribugh, and Kachdura reported massive losses after investing heavily in sprays, fertilizers, and labor, prompting local leaders—including MLA Zainapora Showkat Hussain Ganaie and former MLA Aijaz Ahmad Mir—to demand immediate administrative damage assessments and rapid relief distributions. Highlighting the plight of the farming community, local grower Ghulam Mohammad lamented, “We have been nurturing these orchards for months with the hope of a good harvest. We invested heavily in sprays, fertilisers, irrigation and labour. Within a few hours, strong winds knocked down a large quantity of apples from our trees.” Assuring quick action, MLA Showkat Hussain Ganaie stated, “I am deeply saddened by this natural calamity and stand with the affected growers in this hour of grief. I have directed the Horticulture Department to immediately conduct a comprehensive assessment of the damages. Every possible step will be taken to ensure that the affected orchardists receive appropriate compensation and assistance.”
