Pulwama MLA raises concern over use of substandard pesticides in Kashmir

Pulwama: Pulwama MLA Waheed Para showed great concern over the abundant use of inferior quality pesticides in Kashmir; the apple industry has been suffering in the valley, and farmers have to face tough times to overcome this situation. He explained that these low-quality chemicals are not only perishing horticulture crops but their production has also decreased. The apple industry plays a key role in farmers’ income as well as the economy of the union territory.

Waheed Para stressed the need to create a special Enforcement Directorate within the Horticulture Department to check the quality control of pesticides. He further added that it is essential to control the use of such products in apple orchards. Then farmers can be protected from financial losses and health threats.

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Waheed urged the government to make policies that can be helpful for farmers. Besides this, he emphasized issuing grants for the horticulture and agriculture sectors. He went on to say that it is necessary to organize a training event to educate the farmers about how to use pesticides safely, demanding that strict action should be taken against those selling substandard chemicals.

At the end, Waheed demanded that a long-term strategy should be made to protect the farming community of the valley. These measures will definitely make them financially strong and boost the growth of the horticulture sector in the regions.