The recent advance release of the 21st installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme, announced by Union Ministry, is a ray of hope for the flood-ravaged farmers of Jammu & Kashmir, particularly in the Kashmir Valley. With Rs 171 crore transferred directly to the bank accounts of 8.55 lakh farmers, including 85,418 women, the timely financial aid indicates the central government’s commitment to supporting a region battered by nature’s fury. For Kashmir’s agricultural community, grappling with the aftermath of relentless floods and landslides, the infusion of funds offers not just relief but a chance to reclaim their livelihoods and rebuild their lives.
Kashmir Valley, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich agricultural heritage, has been brought to its knees by recent floods and heavy rains. Crops like rice, apples, saffron and walnuts that are cornerstones of the Valley’s economy have suffered huge losses. Apple orchards, a proud symbol of Kashmir’s identity, lie in ruins, while fertile lands have been eroded and critical infrastructure, such as irrigation channels and storage facilities, stands crippled. For small and marginal farmers, who form the backbone of the valley’s agriculture, the losses are catastrophic. With supply chains disrupted and market access severed, these families face an uncertain future, caught between immediate survival and the daunting task of long-term recovery.
PM-KISAN installment, part of a cumulative Rs 4,052 crore disbursed to J&K farmers, is a critical lifeline. It empowers farmers to meet urgent needs that includes purchasing seeds, repairing equipment, or simply sustaining their households. Yet, the scale of destruction demands more than cash transfers. Central government’s broader relief measures reflect the understanding. The allocation of Rs 85.62 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY-Gramin) to rebuild 5,100 damaged homes is a vital step toward restoring dignity and stability. Proposals to increase MGNREGA workdays from 100 to 150, alongside commitments to supply seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs, signal a holistic approach to agricultural revival.
J&K government’s innovative ‘Jiska kheth, uski reth’ policy, enabling farmers to benefit from sand sales, and the promise of additional funds under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) and the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) offer hope for a sustainable recovery.
However, challenges loom large as the bureaucratic delays in submitting proposals for schemes like PMFBY and MGNREGA could stall progress, leaving farmers in limbo. Valley’s recurring vulnerability to floods and landslides demands long-term solutions, flood-resistant crops, modern irrigation systems and robust early warning mechanisms to prevent future devastation.
The moment also calls for harnessing technology and innovation to secure Kashmir’s agricultural future. Promoting climate-smart farming practices, such as precision agriculture and water-efficient irrigation, could fortify the Valley against future calamities. Strengthening local cooperatives and providing training on sustainable techniques can empower farmers to adapt and thrive. By investing in these forward-looking measures, the government can transform this crisis into an opportunity to build a more strong agricultural ecosystem.
The plight of Kashmir’s farmers is a call to action. It reminds us of the fragility of our agricultural communities and the need for collective support. Central and J&K governments must work in tandem to ensure seamless delivery of aid, while civil society and local organizations can play a role in amplifying farmers’voices. As the Valley begins its journey toward recovery, let us rally behind its farmers, whose hard work is the bedrock of Kashmir’s identity.
