Kulgam, Apr 7: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Tuesday visited hailstorm-affected villages of Kulgam district, taking stock of the damage and reviewing response measures on the ground.
During the visit, the Minister conducted an on-spot appraisal of losses to agricultural crops, horticulture orchards, residential structures and public infrastructure across several villages including D.H. Pora, Nihama, Manzgam, Bathipora, Ladgoo Rambhama and Pombay.
Interacting with affected families, farmers and local representatives, she assured that the Government stands firmly with the people in this difficult time and that timely assistance will be ensured.
“District Administration has been directed to carry out a detailed and accurate assessment of losses and ensure prompt relief under existing norms,” Sakeena Itoo said, adding that all possible support will be extended to orchardists and farmers without delay.
She reiterated that the Government is committed to providing both immediate relief and long-term support to mitigate the impact of such natural calamities on rural livelihoods.
“Our Government completely stands with the farming community in this difficult time. We will ensure all losses are compensated fairly,” she stated.
The Minister also instructed officers of concerned departments to deploy field teams for rapid surveys and ensure transparency in compiling loss reports within a fixed timeframe for swift disbursement of assistance.
She further directed officials to remain present on the ground, maintain coordination with local representatives and ensure prompt relief measures across all affected areas.
Senior officers of the district administration, including SDM Noorabad, Chief Agriculture Officer, Chief Horticulture Officer and other officials accompanied the Minister during the visit. Locals appreciated the Minister’s outreach and expressed hope for timely assistance to recover from the losses caused by the hailstorm.
