Srinagar, Oct 27, KNT: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislator Waheed Parra on Monday made a strong appeal in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly for immediate government intervention to support the horticulture sector, which he described as the backbone of the Union Territory’s economy.
Speaking during the ongoing session, Parra said that fruit growers across the Valley were facing severe distress due to weather-related losses, poor market returns, and rising input costs. “Horticulture, the backbone of J&K’s economy, deserves protection, not neglect. Losses are high and growers are in distress,” Parra said on the floor of the House.
He urged the government to announce a waiver of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loans this year, citing it as a critical step to provide relief to struggling orchardists. “KCC loans should be waived off in the interest of farmers this year as they will find it helpful,” Parra stated.
The PDP lawmaker also demanded timely compensation for affected growers through an effective crop insurance mechanism, stressing that the existing compensation system was insufficient and often delayed. “Losses must be compensated through crop insurance so that farmers can sustain their livelihoods,” he added.
Parra emphasized that the horticulture sector contributes significantly to Jammu and Kashmir’s economy and sustains thousands of families across rural belts. He said that despite its importance, the sector has not received the policy attention or infrastructural support it deserves.
The legislator’s remarks come amid reports of widespread damage to apple and other fruit crops due to recent adverse weather and transport disruptions. [KNT]
