Srinagar, Sep 03 (KNS): In a much-needed relief to the horticultural sector, Director Horticulture Kashmir Zahoor Ahmad Bhat on Tuesday said that crop insurance for apple orchards will be available starting from March 2025.

Speaking to reporters at Kulgam after visiting the orchards affected due to gusty winds and hailstorm, Bhat said that the crop insurance will cover losses due to hailstorms, adverse weather conditions, and low temperatures.

He said that the government will bear 95% of the premium, leaving only 5% for farmers to pay.

Bhat said that approximately 25-30 villages have been severely impacted by the hailstorm, with an estimated 50-60% crop damage. "The strong winds and hailstorms hit at a critical stage, just before the harvest which has made the situation even worse," he said.

He also said that teams from the SKUAST-K and the horticulture department have assessed the damage to guide farmers on the next steps.

"We urge farmers to collect the fallen produce and market it quickly, as leaving it in the fields will only lead to rotting and further losses," he added.

He said that experts are preparing advisories, which will include guidance on how to handle and sell the damaged produce.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel"We are coordinating with the marketing department to find solutions for this contaminated product," he further said.

In addition to crop insurance, the Director said that efforts are on to assist farmers. "We are recommending treatments like Captan to help reduce the staining caused by hail damage."

On being asked about protective measures like nets can be implemented to avoid losses, he said that protecting Orchards with Nets is Challenging in Conventional Setups adding that such options are more feasible in high-density orchards.

Speaking on the concerns raised by local farmers regarding compensation, Bhat said that they understand the losses are in the range of lakhs and crores, and while previous compensations have been inadequate, they are working to ensure better support this time.

Meanwhile Farmers expressed their gratitude for the immediate response but have urged the government to take further steps, such as waiving off KCC loans and provide additional financial assistance.

The Director assured them that all necessary measures would be taken to mitigate their losses.(KNS)