Srinagar, May 30: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Saturday expressed deep concern over the extensive damage caused by a recent hailstorm that severely affected orchards and agricultural land across several areas of Kashmir division, including D.H. Pora in Kulgam district.
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The Minister described the hailstorm as an unfortunate natural calamity that has dealt a major setback to orchardists and farmers who rely heavily on the upcoming harvest season for their livelihood.
Taking prompt cognisance of the situation, Sakeena Itoo established direct communication with the district administrations and the Director Horticulture to obtain a detailed assessment of the damage caused by the hailstorm.
She directed the Deputy Commissioners to undertake immediate ground-level assessments and ensure that affected orchardists and farmers receive timely assistance and compensation as per the established government norms.
The Minister emphasized that the district administration has been instructed to conduct a comprehensive and accurate evaluation of losses, facilitate speedy relief measures, and extend all possible support to the affected farming community without delay.
She further directed the concerned departments, including Horticulture, Agriculture and Revenue, to work in close coordination to expedite the compensation process and provide necessary technical guidance and support to farmers for crop recovery wherever feasible.
Reiterating the Government’s commitment towards the welfare of farmers and orchardists, Sakeena Itoo said that the Government stands firmly with the affected families during this challenging period and will ensure that genuine losses are assessed fairly and compensated in accordance with the prescribed norms.
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The Minister also instructed the Deputy Commissioners to maintain a strong field presence through officers and officials, ensure close coordination among all stakeholders, and address the concerns of affected farmers on priority so that no farmer is left unattended during this difficult time.
