Fully implement PMFBY in Kashmir: Tarigami

Srinagar, May 28: CPI (M) leader and Kulgam MLA Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami has expressed concern over the failure to implement the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) in Kashmir, especially amid frequent natural calamities. He highlighted the Centre’s promise of up to 90 percent subsidy for farmers in Himalayan regions.

Addressing a press conference in Srinagar in the wake of recent hailstorms and windstorms that damaged fruit orchards across the Valley, Tarigami urged the government to make an immediate assessment of the status of PMFBY and release compensation for affected farmers. “Agriculture is the backbone of Kashmir’s economy. Thousands of households are dependent on apple industry but despite this, whenever there is a natural disaster, our farmers are left without institutional support,” he said.

The CPI(M) leader said that although PMFBY was launched across India in 2016–17, adding that its implementation in Kashmir has been miniscule. “Only one district in Kashmir was initially included, while several districts in Jammu were covered. A serious effort has not been made to extend the scheme across Kashmir,” he said. Tarigami hit out at insurance agencies for their early reluctance of to operate in Kashmir.

He blamed the government for failing to ensure proper follow-up. “There is still lack of clarity among farmers whether apples, cherries, and walnuts are covered under the scheme. The uncertainty and lack of communication is alarming,” he said.

Tarigami also stressed on the problems in the damage assessment process. He said this still relies on the outdated patwari system. “This leads to inaccurate reports and often results in politically or bureaucratically influenced compensation. A modern, transparent system is needed,” he said.