Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Sunday requested the central government to waive off the loan of Jammu and Kashmir farmers, orchardists while asserting that unseasonal rain and hailstorm in many districts of Kashmir led to huge crop loss.
In a statement issued here, senior PDP leader and Ex VC JK Cements Ltd, Er Nazir Yatoo expressed concern over the plight of the farmers and said, “The farmers of Jammu and Kashmir have faced huge loss due to recent hailstorm in south, north and central Kashmir districts. Many farmers, orchardists had taken the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loan from the banks which they cannot repay now due to loss. Farmers, orchardists only want the government to waive off their KCC loans,” he said.
“This loan is given to farmers, orchardists to buy fungicides, seeds, and other essentials, though this year unscheduled rains and hailstorm wreaked havoc to their crops, now they have to bear huge losses. Therefore it can be waived off,” he said.
Yatoo said that the government should frame a policy for the welfare of the farmers involving their representatives at the district and divisional level so that their issues can be addressed.
Er Nazir Yatoo argued the one-time KCC loan waiver can be considered as one of the components of the relief and rehabilitation plan that can give a sigh of relief to the farming community.
“Horticulture is the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy and the hailstorm has dealt a blow to it. Under prevailing circumstances, it is an obligation for the government to come to the support and succour of farmers and orchardists,” he said.
“The interest of Kissan Credit Card loan should also not be charged from these poor people who are dependent upon their fields and at present times, they are passing through the hardships. KCC loan interest should be waived off,” he said.
When the Government has given relaxation to the business houses, why the poor farmers, orchardists cannot be considered in the Government’s scheme, he questioned.
“Our farmers, orchardists have made us proud globally. At the moment of crises, we must stand with them and given them all relaxations possible,” he said.
Explaining the mental stress the farmers are passing though, PDP leader said the poor farmers are worried due to poor financial conditions, and hardships in growing next crops in absence of labourers.
He said that farmers may come on roads if their demands are not accepted.
