GoI targeting Kashmir’s horticulture, handicraft sectors: Mehbooba

Srinagar, Dec 21: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday accused the Central government of systematically targeting Jammu and Kashmir’s economic lifelines, including horticulture, agriculture, and handicrafts, while leaving tourism as the only surviving sector.
Speaking to KNS, she warned that the destruction of these sectors would leave Kashmir’s people without sustainable livelihoods, pushing them toward dependency. “If these industries are destroyed, the people of Jammu and Kashmir will be left with nothing. We will be reduced to dependency, with no means to sustain ourselves,” she said.
Mufti called for immediate intervention of Omar Abdullah-led government to protect the region’s economy. “This appears to be a conspiracy to weaken J&K’s self-reliance. The government must act responsibly to safeguard the people’s interests,” she said
Highlighting ongoing development projects, including railway expansion, the ring road and the Rajouri-Baramulla road construction, the former chief minister expressed grave concerns over the loss of fertile agricultural land.
“The establishment of satellite townships on prime farmland threatens the backbone of J&K’s economy,” she said. “I urge Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to address these pressing issues. These projects are encroaching on our farmlands, and people are questioning their purpose. We need clarity on who truly benefits from these developments.”
Mehbooba also criticised the imposition of a 28% GST on Kashmiri shawls, describing it as a severe blow to the iconic handicrafts industry.
She recalled the earlier ban on Shahtosh shawls, which had disrupted the livelihoods of thousands of workers. “The Kashmiri shawl is our global identity. This heavy GST will cripple the industry and erase a vital part of our heritage for future generations,” she warned.
The PDP chief also raised concerns over “flawed” government policies, including the deteriorating electricity supply and flawed ration distribution systems, which she claims are exacerbating the woes of the people. (KNS)