Sopore: Zahoor Ahmad Bhat, President of the Kashmir Fruit Traders Association, Sopore, has highlighted key issues concerning the current apple market, the threat posed by Leaf Miner disease to orchards, and the need for accountability and transparency in the functioning of Sopore Fruit Mandi.
Speaking about the present market scenario, Bhat said that apple rates are currently encouraging, and the market is performing well despite the challenges faced by fruit growers across North Kashmir.
He noted that several areas of North Kashmir had suffered significant damage due to hailstorms, resulting in losses for orchardists and affecting apple production. Despite these difficulties, he expressed optimism about the current market situation.
Bhat appealed to fruit growers and farmers to focus on the quality of their produce, proper grading, careful packaging and the maintenance of market standards. He said that improving the quality of Kashmir apples is essential for securing better prices and strengthening the reputation of the region’s horticulture sector.
Expressing serious concern over the spread of Leaf Miner disease in apple orchards, Bhat called upon the Lieutenant Governor-led administration, the NC-led government and the Departments of Horticulture and Agriculture to take the issue seriously and initiate effective measures to address the problem.
He stressed the need for timely intervention by experts, scientific assessment of affected orchards and appropriate guidance for fruit growers to control the spread of the disease.
Bhat said that orchard diseases pose a significant challenge to the horticulture sector and can adversely affect tree health, productivity and the livelihoods of farming families if not managed properly.
He urged the concerned departments to organise awareness programmes, provide technical assistance and ensure that orchardists receive timely advice on disease management and recommended plant-protection practices.
He also called for better coordination between government departments, horticulture experts and fruit growers to safeguard apple orchards and protect the economic interests of farmers.
Fruit Mandi
Commenting on the matter concerning the stay order related to accountability in Sopore Fruit Mandi, Bhat expressed gratitude to the Hon’ble Court at Sopore for vacating the stay order.
He said that accountability and transparency are essential for the smooth functioning, effective management and long-term development of Sopore Fruit Mandi.
Bhat emphasised that the interests of fruit traders, growers, farmers and other stakeholders must be protected through transparent practices and responsible management.
He said that strengthening accountability would contribute to improving the overall functioning of the mandi and maintaining the confidence of those associated with the fruit trade.
He reiterated that the Kashmir Fruit Traders Association remains committed to the betterment of Sopore Fruit Mandi and will continue to raise issues concerning the welfare of traders and fruit growers.
Highlighting the difficulties faced by orchardists due to hailstorm damage, Bhat urged the concerned authorities to assess the losses suffered by affected growers and consider appropriate assistance wherever applicable.
He said that fruit growers are an important part of Kashmir’s economy and that protecting their interests requires timely support, effective policies and continued cooperation between the government and the horticulture sector.
He further appealed to all stakeholders to work collectively towards strengthening the apple trade, improving market practices and addressing the challenges faced by the fruit industry.
Zahoor Ahmad Bhat, President of the Kashmir Fruit Traders Association, Sopore, reiterated that quality production, effective disease management, government support, accountability and transparency are essential for the sustainable growth of Sopore Fruit Mandi and the wider horticulture sector of North Kashmir.