JAMMU: A deputation of farmers from various parts of Jammu district on Sunday called on JKPCC Kissan Department Chairman Bharat Priye at his residence and raised a wide range of pressing issues concerning the farming community. The delegation urged for aggressive highlighting and redressal of their genuine demands, which continue to affect agricultural productivity and farmers’ livelihoods across the Union Territory.
During the interaction, the farmers expressed deep concern over the lack of assured and remunerative prices for their produce and demanded effective implementation of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) mechanism. They stressed that without guaranteed pricing and timely procurement, farmers remain vulnerable to market fluctuations and financial instability.
The deputation also highlighted the acute need for improved irrigation infrastructure, especially in rain-fed and drought-prone areas of Jammu region. They pointed out that irregular and inadequate power supply for agricultural purposes has been severely impacting farming operations, and called for dedicated and uninterrupted electricity to the sector.
Raising the issue of crop damage, the farmers said that frequent losses caused by wild animals and adverse weather conditions are pushing them into distress. They demanded a comprehensive and farmer-friendly compensation policy, along with strengthening of crop insurance schemes to ensure timely and adequate relief.
The delegation further emphasized the need for easy access to quality seeds, fertilizers, and modern farming inputs at subsidized rates. They also called for waivers or restructuring of agricultural loans, establishment of better market linkages, and creation of storage and cold chain facilities to minimize post-harvest losses.
Bharat Priye gave a patient hearing to the deputation and assured them that their concerns would be forcefully taken up at appropriate forums. He said that the issues faced by farmers in Jammu and Kashmir require immediate attention and a focused policy approach.
He reiterated that farmers are the backbone of the economy and strengthening the agricultural sector is essential for overall development. Bharat Priye assured that the JKPCC Kissan Department will continue to stand firmly with the farming community and will vigorously advocate for their rights and welfare.The farmers expressed hope that their voices would be effectively amplified and that concrete steps would be taken to address their long-pending demands.
