Kulgam,July 21 (KNS): The District Horticultural Officer Kulgam , Nisar Ahmad Ganie conducted a comprehensive tour of various areas of District Kulgam to assess the intensity and impact of Apple Leaf Blotch Miner?Alternariya , pin-scabe and effid affecting apple orchards.
Accompanied by other officials , assessed the intensity of the infestation and interacted with local orchardists.

District officers visit primarily focused on fruit growing belts in the district, with particular emphasis on areas affected by the Apple Leaf Blotch Miner, Alternariya and pin scabe Orchards in, Kulgam, Chawalgam,Sangas Hangul bush, Tarigam, and Batapora were among the locations he visited.

By observing and engaging with local farmers, the District officer aimed to understand the specific challenges faced by orchardists in this region.The emergence of the Apple Leaf Blotch Miner, a new insect pest in certain areas of the Kashmir Valley, has been attributed to the diversification of crops and changes in pest dynamics influenced by climate factors.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

During the visit, Nisar Ahmad Ganie observed pest-infested orchards and engaged in discussions with local orchardists to understand the challenges they are facing. He emphasized on the importance of following the advisories issued by SKUAST-K (Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir) and the Department of Horticulture, Kashmir, to effectively control the pest and minimize its impact on fruit crops.

He also reviewed the availability of pesticides in the market that are necessary for controlling the Apple Leaf Blotch Miner. Ensuring the availability and accessibility of appropriate pest control measures is crucial for orchardists to effectively manage the pest and safeguard their crops.He urged orchardists to actively collaborate with the Department and research institutions to stay updated on the latest advancements in pest management techniques.(KNS)