Hailstorm Devastates Rafiabad Crops, Minister Javid Dar Reviews Damage

SRINAGAR: Amid harvesting and apple picking, certain belts in Rafiabad were hit by a sudden hailstorm, destroying crops that were on the verge of being harvested. Reports described the damage as massive, with orchards and fields left devastated.

In response, Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperative, and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar, chaired a review meeting today at Dak Bungalow Chijhama with officers from the Horticulture and Agriculture Departments to assess the impact of the hailstorm.

The Minister directed officers to conduct field assessments on priority and compile a comprehensive report detailing the losses incurred by farmers and horticulturists, so that necessary assistance could be provided to the affected communities.

Minister Javid Dar also visited several villages, including the worst-hit areas, to personally evaluate the damage. During his visit, he interacted with farmers in their orchards, listened to their concerns, and assured them that the government would extend all possible support to help them recover from the losses.

The Minister’s visit underscores the Government’s proactive approach in addressing the challenges faced by farmers and horticulturists, ensuring timely support and assistance in times of crisis.