Srinagar, Oct 30 (KNO): The government has announced that it will soon implement a re-structured Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) for fruit growers across the Union Territory to protect them from losses caused by adverse climatic conditions and natural calamities.
According to an official reply to starred question tabled by MLA Tariq Hameed Karra, the Agriculture Production Department (Horticulture Sector) said that the scheme will initially cover Apple, Saffron, Mango, and Litchi crops, and the tendering process for empanelled insurance companies is already underway.
According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the department informed that a series of measures have been taken to safeguard the interests of the fruit industry and ensure the uninterrupted transportation of fruit-laden vehicles to outside markets. Coordination meetings were held with Traffic Police and Transport Departments to facilitate hassle-free movement of vehicles during the peak fruit season.
It added that in case of road disruptions along the National Highway (NH-44), liaison is maintained with District Administrations and JKRTC for arranging additional vehicles. The government has also tied up with the Railway Authorities of India for the transportation of horticultural produce by train, ensuring faster and more cost-effective delivery to markets outside J&K.
During the recent road blockade, 1,25,376 apple boxes worth Rs 10.03 crore were dispatched by train from Budgam and Anantnag to various terminals in Delhi, Ludhiana, and other states, while around 14,000 MTs of fruit boxes were moved from different Fruit and Vegetable Markets in the Valley through rail transport.
Regarding relief measures, the department said that no special package has been announced for fruit growers so far, but compensation under SDRF/NDRF norms is being provided after verification by district administrations.
The recent floods of September 2025 affected an area of 431.091 hectares, with crop losses exceeding 33% in J&K UT. Compensation of Rs 152.37 lakh was sanctioned, of which Rs 12.28 lakh has been disbursed so far.
Additionally, 2,036 orchardists in Shopian district affected by hailstorms have received Rs 47.28 lakh in relief under SDRF norms.
The department reiterated its commitment to supporting fruit growers through infrastructure development, insurance coverage, and efficient transportation systems to prevent future disruptions—(KNO)