Horticulture department to intensify market checking in Tral
Agriculturists complain of substandard agro-inputs
Pulwama: Amid growing concerns from the farming community, the Horticulture Department has announced that it will intensify market inspections in Tral area of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district following widespread complaints about the sale of substandard and unverified fertilizers and pesticides.
Horticulture Development Officer (HDO) Sartaj Ahmed said that the department has taken serious note of the issue and will launch rigorous checking drives in local markets to ensure that only certified and quality agro-products are sold to farmers.
The move comes in the backdrop of repeated complaints by farmers and residents who allege that the unchecked sale of low-quality fertilizers, pesticides, and fungicides has become rampant across several areas of Tral, posing a serious threat to agriculture and livelihoods.
Pulwama district, regarded as one of the key agricultural belts of South Kashmir, heavily relies on quality inputs for the cultivation of paddy, vegetables, and horticultural crops. However, farmers say that the increasing availability of substandard products is undermining crop productivity and causing financial distress.
A local farmer expressed deep concern over the situation, stating that the issue is steadily worsening. “We spend a significant portion of our savings on fertilizers and pesticides, hoping for a good yield. But when these products turn out to be fake or ineffective, it results in heavy losses and wasted effort,” he said.
Another resident criticized the lack of monitoring by enforcement agencies, alleging that the concerned authorities have failed to carry out regular inspections. “There is an urgent need for strict and frequent market checks. Unfortunately, the enforcement wing appears inactive, allowing questionable products to be sold openly,” he said.
Farmers also warned that the use of poor-quality agro-chemicals not only impacts crop yield but also degrades soil health and may pose long-term risks to human health. They stressed that agriculture forms the backbone of the local economy, and any compromise in input quality could have far-reaching consequences.
The farming community has urged authorities to immediately verify the authenticity of products available in the market through laboratory testing and to take strict action against dealers found selling fake or substandard materials.
They also called for strengthening of the enforcement mechanism and the launch of awareness campaigns to help farmers identify genuine and certified products.
Responding to these concerns, HDO Sartaj Ahmed assured that the department will conduct surprise inspections across Tral and other areas. He said that strict action will be taken against any dealer found violating norms, and efforts will be made to safeguard the interests of farmers.
Meanwhile, locals have appealed to the district administration to step in and ensure effective regulation of agro-input markets. They warned that failure to address the issue in time could result in significant agricultural losses in the upcoming farming season.
