Srinagar- Peoples Conference Chairman and MLA Handwara, Sajad Lone, on Monday urged the government to increase budget allocation for the horticulture sector in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing its potential to generate employment and boost the local economy.
“There is significant scope in this industry to create jobs, but the budget allocation remains inadequate. As job opportunities shrink across sectors, horticulture presents a viable path for economic growth,” Lone said while addressing the assembly.
He highlighted the financial difficulties faced by farmers, particularly those engaged in traditional paddy farming, who often struggle to generate substantial income after covering expenses. “A paddy farmer barely saves Rs 2,500, whereas high-revenue sectors offer significantly better financial returns. If farming does not remain profitable, why would they continue growing rice just for tradition’s sake?” he questioned.
Expressing concern over the conversion of agricultural land into real estate and industrial use, Lone warned that existing laws alone cannot halt this trend. “If farmers see no financial benefit, they will shift to other occupations. Government intervention or corporate investment is necessary to sustain the sector,” he stressed.
Lone also pointed to the economic challenges farmers face despite subsidies and the impact of global market dynamics on local agriculture. “Even with a 50% subsidy, many farmers struggle to afford the remaining costs. The financial burden discourages modernization in agriculture,” he noted.
He urged the government to facilitate corporate investment or allocate more funds directly to the horticulture sector to provide relief to farmers. “Without this transition, a significant portion of agricultural land will be lost to non-agricultural activities,” he cautioned.
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