SRINAGAR: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Saturday directed district administrations across Kashmir to carry out immediate ground-level assessments of extensive damage caused by a recent hailstorm that severely affected orchards and agricultural land in several areas, including DH Pora in Kulgam district.
Expressing deep concern over the losses suffered by farmers and orchardists, the Minister described the hailstorm as a major natural calamity that has dealt a significant blow to the farming community ahead of the harvest season.
Taking prompt cognisance of the situation, Itoo established direct contact with district administrations and the Director Horticulture to obtain a detailed assessment of the extent of the damage. She instructed Deputy Commissioners to ensure swift evaluation of losses and facilitate timely assistance and compensation to affected farmers under established government norms.
The Minister directed the concerned departments, including Horticulture, Agriculture and Revenue, to work in close coordination to expedite relief measures and provide all necessary technical guidance for crop recovery wherever feasible.
She also asked district officers to maintain a strong field presence, ensure close coordination among all stakeholders and address the concerns of affected farmers on priority.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers and orchardists, Itoo said all genuine losses would be assessed fairly and compensated in accordance with prescribed norms, adding that no affected farmer would be left unattended during this difficult period.
