Srinagar, Sep 21: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday described the horticulture sector as the “backbone” of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy and alleged that the government has been neglecting this crucial industry, leaving growers to suffer despite its vast contribution to livelihoods and regional prosperity.
In a strongly worded statement posted on X, the former Chief Minister recalled the policies of her late father, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, who, during his tenure, initiated what she called “bold and effective” measures to support the horticulture sector, particularly the apple industry that sustains thousands of families in the Valley.
“Mufti Sahib clearly recognised the fruit industry as the backbone of our economy. During his short tenure, he took bold and effective measures to support this vital sector,” she wrote, adding that her father had taken decisions that fundamentally strengthened the foundations of the fruit trade. These included the abolition of toll tax on fruit consignments, the establishment of fruit mandis across the Valley to ensure better market access, and the launch of the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for purchasing C-grade apples. He also initiated the high-density plantation scheme aimed at enhancing productivity and improving fruit quality to meet global standards.
Mehbooba Mufti contrasted this legacy with what she termed the present government’s “apathy and inaction.” She accused the administration under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of remaining a “silent spectator” while the horticulture sector faces mounting crises.
Highlighting one of the most pressing issues, the PDP chief said that the government failed to continue with the MIS scheme this year, which would have safeguarded fruit growers from market volatility by purchasing unsold or lower-grade produce. “The refusal to procure C-grade apples under the MIS has resulted in heavy losses for fruit growers, many of whom are already reeling under economic stress caused by repeated disruptions, including the frequent closure of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway,” she said.
She further argued that the fruit industry, which has historically been one of the few reliable sources of employment and income in rural Kashmir, is being undermined at a time when growers need greater institutional support. With climate change, erratic weather, pest infestations, and logistical bottlenecks already affecting production and transport, she said, the absence of government intervention has compounded the crisis.
Mehbooba warned that ignoring the sector could have long-term economic and social consequences. She urged the government to revive and strengthen the earlier initiatives introduced by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and to ensure that fruit growers receive fair returns and institutional protection. “This government has not only failed to take forward the reforms but has abandoned the very schemes that gave growers confidence. It is a betrayal of those who toil in orchards and keep the Valley’s economy afloat,” she remarked.