Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir’s Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmad Dar on Thursday assured fruit growers that the government will resolve all major issues related to fruit mandis across the Union Territory within the current financial year, even as he acknowledged that certain demands of the Jablipura Fruit Association remain sub-judice.
The minister was addressing a meeting with legislators, senior officers and members of the association here, where he discussed long-pending grievances, including allotment of sheds, employment for local youth, and the truck terminal issue.
Minister Javid Ahmad Dar said the government has received a review petition regarding the association’s demands and is actively evaluating it. “We are trying to find a way out. We will review the decision and, Inshallah, bring a positive outcome in the near future. But certain matters are still in court, and we cannot take a decision on those,” he said.
The minister emphasised that the government has a comprehensive plan to develop all fruit mandis in the UT, including those in Shopian, Pulwama, Sopore, Bandipora, Baramulla, and Jammu’s Narwal area. “We have already set up a new fruit mandi allotting 50 acres of land for it. This clearly shows our commitment towards the horticulture sector,” minister Dar said.
On the recurring closure of the national highway, which affects fruit transport, the minister said he would hold discussions with the National Highway Authority and traffic police. “We have seen the conditions on the Ramban stretch. We will try to solve this problem as soon as possible so that people get a smooth national highway,” he added.
Dismissing allegations of deliberate blockades, minister Dar attributed the disruptions to natural factors such as landslides caused by excessive rains and ongoing tunnel construction work. “That is a wrong accusation. I do not agree with it. In my opinion, Allah has given human beings the ability to think,” the minister said.
He also appealed to growers and traders to maintain patience and discipline, assuring them that the government is available round the clock to address their concerns. “People have trusted this government. We are available 24×7 for them. Whenever they have a problem, we are there for them,” minister Dar said. (KNS)
