Ajay Sharma
Rajouri, January 30
Local farmers and beneficiaries in Rajouri district have raised serious concerns over the delay in clearing pending payments worth approximately Rs 2 to 2.5 crores from the previous financial year (2023-2024) under various horticulture schemes.
According to couple of farmers in Rajouri, despite assurances from higher authorities, no tangible benefits have reached the farmers.
“Schemes for 2024-2025 included provisions for machinery, irrigation, and other overall initiatives, however, liabilities from the prior year—specifically under heads P9 and P15 remain unpaid, amounting to Rs 2-2.5 crores,” asserted farmers, adding that these funds are described as “beneficially liable,” meaning they are earmarked for direct benefits to farmers, such as subsidies or support for horticulture activities.
Farmers criticized senior officials, including the Director of Horticulture, for allegedly failing to address the issue despite being aware of it.
“On the ground, we are zero in giving benefits to the beneficiaries,” said farmers, accusing officers of prioritizing photo opportunities in newspapers and social media over actual delivery.
They alleged that prominent claimants and leaders make big public claims, but no real advantages reach the farmers.
“Assurances were given that payments would be cleared soon, but as of now, nothing has materialized,” said sources, adding that if liabilities from 2023-2024 remain unresolved, there is little hope for timely action in subsequent years.
The farmers urged the Chief Secretary, Commissioner/Secretary under whom the Horticulture Department falls, the Principal Secretary, and the Minister to intervene immediately.
Talking to The Northlines, a senior officer, wishing anonymity shared that clearance requires approval from higher authorities, such as the Principal Secretary, implying bureaucratic delays at senior levels.
Meanwhile, sources well versed with the matter shared that Rajouri, often highlighted for its special status has seen limited ground-level impact from horticulture programs despite central and UT government funding.
“Farmers depend on these schemes for machinery, water resources, and overall support to boost productivity in fruit crops, a key economic driver in the region,” claimed sources, adding “How will the farmers get benefits? How do they make big claims?”
Sources said that the farmers should get the benefits as soon as possible.
