Kashmir Hailstorm 2025: Apple Orchards Ravaged, Growers Demand Insurance
A devastating Kashmir hailstorm 2025 struck on April 18, 2025, wreaking havoc on apple orchards across the Kashmir Valley, leaving farmers in despair, per Kashmir Life. Growers are urgently demanding a robust crop insurance scheme to mitigate losses. For more, visit our agriculture section.
Kashmir Hailstorm 2025: Extent of Damage
The hailstorm, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds, battered orchards in Shopian, Pulwama, and Kulgam, damaging apple blooms essential for the harvest, per The Hindu BusinessLine. Farmers reported up to 80% crop loss in severely affected areas, per Greater Kashmir. Posts on X described the storm as a “heartbreaking blow” to livelihoods, per Kashmir News.
Kashmir Hailstorm 2025: Affected Areas
Shopian, Pulwama, Kulgam hit hardest, per Kashmir Life.
Crop Loss
Up to 80% in some orchards, per Greater Kashmir.
Timing
April 18, during bloom stage, per The Hindu BusinessLine.
Growers’ Call for Crop Insurance
Farmers are urging the government to implement a comprehensive crop insurance scheme, as current coverage is limited and compensation is insufficient, per Kashmir Life. Only 2.45 lakh farmers are insured, with just Rs 31.66 crore paid in claims in 2023–24, per Hindustan Times. X posts demand “MSP and insurance” to combat climate shocks, per Kashmir News.
| Aspect | Details | Impact | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hailstorm Date | April 18, 2025 | Damaged apple blooms | Kashmir Life |
| Affected Districts | Shopian, Pulwama, Kulgam | 80% crop loss in areas | Greater Kashmir |
| Insurance Coverage | 2.45 lakh farmers insured | Low payouts, Rs 31.66 crore | Hindustan Times |
| Grower Demands | Comprehensive insurance | Mitigate climate risks | The Hindu BusinessLine |
Economic and Social Impact
Apples are a cornerstone of Kashmir’s economy, and the hailstorm threatens thousands of livelihoods, per The Hindu BusinessLine. Delayed compensation worsens financial strain for farmers, per Greater Kashmir. Local leaders advocate for anti-hail nets, per Kashmir News agriculture updates.
Kashmir Hailstorm 2025: How to Stay Informed
- Track Updates: Follow Kashmir News for agriculture news.
- Trust Sources: Check Kashmir Life or Greater Kashmir.
- Verify X Posts: Cross-check with Hindustan Times.
Government and Community Response
The Horticulture Department is evaluating losses, but growers demand swift action and insurance reforms, per Kashmir Life. Community support is growing, with calls for sustainable farming practices, per Hindustan Times. X posts urge PM intervention, per Kashmir News.
Kashmir Hailstorm 2025 Key Facts
- 80% crop loss in key areas, per Greater Kashmir.
- Insurance covers 2.45 lakh farmers, per Hindustan Times.
- Demands for anti-hail nets rise, per Kashmir Life.
Conclusion
The Kashmir hailstorm 2025 underscores the urgent need for crop insurance and climate resilience. Stay updated with Kashmir News and explore our Kashmir news section.
