J&K’s Crop Insurance Delayed Again as Bidding Process Fails

Baramulla, June 19: The much-anticipated crop insurance scheme for farmers in Jammu and Kashmir has hit a roadblock due to a lack of interest from insurance companies during the tendering process, Minister for Agricultural Production Javed Ahmad Dar said on Thursday.

Speaking after a developmental review meeting held at Dak Bungalow Baramulla, Dar said only one bidder came forward during the last round, stalling the scheme. “We are optimistic this time the process will conclude successfully and the policy will be implemented without further delay,” he told reporters.

The minister, joined by Jal Shakti and Forest Minister Javed Ahmad Rana, reviewed key projects and administrative performance under the District Capex Budget 2024–25 and assured that pressing public grievances would be addressed promptly.

Dar also flagged the poor condition of irrigation infrastructure, attributing the water scarcity in the region to outdated systems. “We need a complete overhaul of lift and gravity-fed schemes to ensure efficiency. We are taking this up seriously,” he said.

On health services, he said the government is focused on upgrading medical infrastructure across Baramulla. “Shortage of staff, especially at GMC Baramulla, is being addressed. The matter has already been taken up with officials and will be resolved soon,” he added.

Minister Javed Ahmad Rana said the return of elected representatives offers an opportunity to rebuild governance systems and reconnect administration with the public. “The vacuum caused by the absence of popular government will now be filled. Public grievances will not be ignored,” he said.

Rana directed district officers to intensify monitoring of ongoing works and submit detailed reports. He also instructed the Deputy Commissioner to ensure greater involvement of local MLAs in planning and implementation processes.

Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa presented the district's performance figures, noting 94% implementation of centrally sponsored schemes and 88% expenditure of the allocated budget so far this year.

Local MLAs, including Javaid Hassan Beigh, Irfan Hafiz Lone, Irshad Rasool Kar, Riyaz Bedar, and Dr. Sajad Shafi raised public concerns such as poor road conditions, drinking water supply, and inadequate street lighting.

Rana also spoke on the need for a comprehensive strategy to combat rising drug abuse, calling on health and law enforcement agencies to provide youth-centric rehabilitation and reintegration efforts.