16/06/2026
*Former BDC Chairman Langate Seeks Compensation for Hailstorm-Affected Farmers in Kupwara*
Handwara, June 16: Senior AIP leader and Former BDC Chairman Langate, Showkat Hassan Pandit, on Tuesday urged the government to provide immediate compensation to farmers affected by recent hailstorms in several parts of Kupwara district.
In a statement, Pandit said the hailstorms caused extensive damage to agricultural and horticultural crops, leaving thousands of farmers facing severe financial distress. He said many farmers had availed loans under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme and invested heavily in pesticides, fertilizers and other agricultural inputs in the hope of securing a good harvest. However, the unexpected hailstorms damaged standing crops and resulted in substantial losses.
Pandit appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to announce a special relief package for the affected farmers and fruit growers. He also demanded an immediate assessment of the damage so that compensation could be provided without delay.
He said a large section of the population in Kupwara depends on agriculture and horticulture for livelihood. According to him, apple, walnut, cherry and other crops have suffered significant damage in many areas due to the recent hailstorms.
Pandit said the affected farmers are already burdened with loans and cannot withstand further losses. He urged the administration to extend all possible assistance and ensure adequate compensation at the earliest.
