Minister Sakeena Itoo Orders Immediate Relief Following Devastating Hailstorm in Kulgam and Shopian

JAMMU, JAMMU & KASHMIR — April 6, 2026Sakeena Itoo, the Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, has expressed deep concern over the extensive damage caused by a severe hailstorm that recently battered orchards and farmlands across the Kulgam and Shopian districts.

Acknowledging that the calamity has dealt a massive blow to thousands of orchardists and farmers who depend entirely on the upcoming harvest for their livelihoods, the Minister immediately established direct communication with the local district administrations.

She instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Kulgam to initiate an urgent ground-level assessment to ensure that the scale of destruction is accurately documented for timely compensation.

In a proactive move to support the affected agricultural community, Minister Itoo directed the Horticulture, Agriculture, and Revenue departments to work in close synergy to expedite the relief process.

Beyond financial aid, she emphasized the need for providing technical support to farmers to assist in crop recovery where possible. The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to standing by the farming community during this crisis, mandating that district officials maintain a constant presence on the ground and coordinate with local representatives.

This ensuring that no affected family is overlooked and that all relief measures are distributed fairly and without delay under existing government norms.