The Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union, representing major fruit growers' associations in the region, has reached out to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman with a request for the inclusion of specific measures to bolster the horticulture industry in the Budget 2025-26. The communication, as reported by the Kashmir News Observer (KNO), highlights the industry's role in supporting over seven lakh families in Jammu and Kashmir.
The growers expressed concerns over the absence of a Crop Insurance Scheme, which remains unimplemented despite previous announcements. They have urged for budgetary allocations to facilitate its execution, providing financial protection against losses from natural disasters.
The letter also advocates for the reintroduction of the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS). This initiative was previously implemented to assist fruit growers in managing their produce, particularly addressing the approximately 40% of apple crops classified as Grade C each season. The scheme's discontinuation has led to financial challenges, prompting calls for its revival in the forthcoming budget.
Additionally, the growers propose the establishment of specialized horticulture estates, akin to industrial estates, with facilities such as cold storage, canning factories, and Juice Processing Units. This infrastructure would streamline storage and processing, potentially reducing post-harvest losses.
A highlighted issue is the 12% GST on essential materials like cardboard boxes and insecticides, which has increased production costs. The growers suggest either exempting these materials from GST or reducing the tax rate to alleviate financial burdens.
The growers also seek the classification of Tree Spray Oil as an agricultural product for better subsidies. They call for the creation of soil, pesticide, and fruit quality testing laboratories in the region to enhance standards and productivity.
Concerns over aging orchards have led to demands for dedicated budget allocations for orchard rejuvenation and an emergency relief fund for natural calamities. The letter also addresses the financial strain from Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loans, with a plea for loan waivers for growers impacted by past adversities.
Furthermore, the promotion of kiwi, grapes, and pomegranates cultivation is urged to diversify horticulture in the valley. The growers hope the upcoming budget will address these issues, providing a stable future for Jammu and Kashmir's fruit industry.
Source: Kashmir Convener