In Jammu and Kashmir, the formation of a new government by the National Conference (NC) and Congress alliance is generating optimism among fruit growers for the implementation of agricultural reforms.

These include the introduction of a crop insurance scheme and measures to restrict duty-free apple imports. The region's agricultural economy is heavily reliant on fruit cultivation, with growers facing challenges such as extreme weather conditions and market fluctuations.

The NC has committed to restricting apple imports and increasing the minimum assessment value of imported apples to protect domestic farmers, alongside establishing a minimum support price for apples. They also aim to exempt horticulture products from the GST regime. Fruit growers have long advocated for an insurance scheme to mitigate financial risks posed by adverse weather, which can severely impact production and lead to significant losses.

Ghulam Ahmad, a fruit grower, expressed his hope that the new government will prioritize the implementation of crop insurance. The lack of such a scheme has made fruit cultivation a risky venture, with many families dependent on it for their livelihoods. The introduction of crop insurance is seen as a means to provide financial stability, encourage investment in modern agricultural practices, and improve market negotiation positions for growers.

The Congress party, part of the governing alliance, has also pledged support for the agricultural sector, promising to enhance infrastructure and financial security for farmers, including those in the fruit-growing industry. They aim to promote the global marketing of Kashmiri apples, recognizing the industry's potential for growth.

Fruit growers are closely monitoring the government's actions regarding the promised agricultural reforms, particularly the swift implementation of the crop insurance scheme.

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com