SRINAGAR: Minister for Agriculture Production, Javid Ahmad Dar today said that a mega fruit mandi at Aar Mohala, Kulgam on 300 kanals is being established and the transfer of land in favour of the department is under process. The Minister said this while replying to a question raised by Legislator, Abdul Majid Bhat Larmi regarding compensation for crop losses to farmers in Legislative Assembly today.

He said that the department has already established two Fruit and Vegetable Markets in the district Anantnag, at Batengo and at Jablipora, which are functional and adequately cater to the marketing needs of the growers and traders of the entire district. He also added that in Kulgam district one mandi namely Apni Mandi has been established at Nunmai, which is at developmental stage.

The Minister further informed that damages to Horticulture crops in J&K has been assessed over an area of 531.06 ha, however, as per SDRF/NDRF norms compensation is admissible only for crop losses exceeding 33% which accounts for an area of 431.091 ha. He also added that in South Kashmir districts of Anantnag, Kulgam and Pulwama, a total compensation Rs 4.088 lakh has been paid.

The Minister further informed the house that there is one C.A. Storage Unit with capacity of 5000 MT in Anantnag district. He said that CA stores are established by private entrepreneurs and Government provides subsidy for the same. He added that the assistance is open to any entrepreneur who is willing to apply as per the norms and procedures.

The Minister also informed that most CA stores are located in the Industrial Growth Centre at Lassipora, Pulwama, and the Industrial Estate at Aglar, Shopian, while as efforts are underway with the Industries and Commerce Department to establish sector-specific industrial estates for horticulture and post-harvest management in other districts.

He added that continuous awareness programs and seminars are organized in all districts including Anantnag and Kulgam, to create awareness among the fruit growers about available incentives for cold storage and other post-harvest related activities. Legislators Justice (Retd) Hasnain Masoodi and Showkat Ahmad Ganie raised supplementary questions on the subject.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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