Kashmir fruit growers’ associations meet CM Omar Abdullah, present key demands for horticulture sector

Srinagar, February 14: A delegation of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union, led by Chairman Bashir Ahmad Basheer, met with Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Jammu to discuss pressing concerns of the horticulture sector. The delegation, which included Muhammad Ayoub Bhat, Riyaz Ahmad Rather of New Kashmir Fruit Association, Parimpora, Srinagar and Fayaz Ahmad Malik, President Fruit Association, Sopore, Muhammad Ashraf, President Fruit Association, Shopian, Javaid Ahmad Bhat, Fruit Association, Pulwama, Ghulam Rasool Wagay, Fruit Association, Sopore, submitted a detailed memorandum outlining key demands to ensure the sustainability and growth of the fruit industry in the region.

Ziraat Times here reproduces the key issues raised by the union:

1. Implementation of Crop Insurance Scheme

The growers urged the government to implement a Crop Insurance Scheme for the horticulture sector, similar to the agriculture sector. This scheme, which had been announced earlier but remains unimplemented, is crucial for providing financial relief to fruit growers affected by natural disasters.

2. Reintroduction of Market Intervention Scheme (MIS)

The delegation called for the revival of the Market Intervention Scheme, which previously supported farmers by ensuring the government purchased Grade C apples at fair prices. They emphasized that 40% of the apple crop falls under this category, and without government intervention, farmers face significant losses.

3. Establishment of Horticulture Estates

A proposal was made for dedicated Horticulture Estates on the model of Industrial Estates, facilitating the setup of Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage, canning factories, and juice plants with a single-window clearance system.

4. Subsidized Cold Storage Facilities

To support small and marginal farmers, the growers requested the establishment of CA stores on a cooperative basis with government subsidies.

5. GST Exemption on Horticulture Packaging & Inputs

The Union urged the government to remove or reduce the 12% GST on essential packaging materials like cardboard cartons, plastic trays, and insecticides to ease the financial burden on fruit growers.

6. Rising Cost of Pesticides and Fertilizers

The escalating prices of pesticides and fertilizers are becoming unsustainable for growers. They requested government intervention to regulate and subsidize these essential inputs.

7. Recognition of Tree Spray Oil as an Agricultural Product

The growers sought official classification of tree spray oil as an agricultural product to ensure better availability and affordability.

8. Establishment of Testing Laboratories

The delegation stressed the need for modern testing laboratories in each district to ensure proper quality control and certification of pesticides and fertilizers.

9. Rejuvenation of Orchards with High-Density Plants

To counter orchard damage, the government was urged to facilitate the availability of high-density plants, allowing farmers to enhance productivity.

10. Allocation of Emergency Funds for Natural Calamities

The growers requested a dedicated fund in the budget for emergency relief in case of natural disasters affecting the horticulture sector.

11. Implementation of NPA Relief Schemes

Many fruit growers have defaulted on loans due to economic disruptions, including the 2014 floods and COVID-19. The growers called for the immediate implementation of government-declared relief measures for loan defaulters.

12. Waiver of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Loans

The delegation requested the waiver of KCC loans for the poorest farmers who have been unable to repay due to repeated disruptions in the valley.

13. Promotion of Kiwi, Grape, and Pomegranate Cultivation

The Union proposed financial incentives and support for developing non-traditional fruit crops such as kiwi, grapes, and pomegranates in Kashmir.

14. Expansion of Irrigation Facilities

A request was made for improved irrigation infrastructure to enhance fruit quality and yield.

15. Railway Connectivity for Cherry Transport

To improve market access, the growers sought dedicated railway transport for cherries to Mumbai, reducing post-harvest losses and transportation costs.

Chief Minister’s response

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah gave the delegation a patient hearing and assured them that all concerns raised would be reviewed. He acknowledged the horticulture sector’s critical role in Kashmir’s economy and expressed commitment to implementing necessary reforms and support measures.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Chairman Bashir Ahmad Basheer thanked the Chief Minister for his time and assurance, expressing hope that concrete steps would be taken to address the challenges faced by fruit growers in Jammu and Kashmir.