Bandipora, July 24 : Allegations of favouritism and an alleged “pick-and-choose” policy have surfaced in Bandipora’s Horticulture Department over the selection of beneficiaries for government-sponsored exposure visits, with several orchardists claiming that genuine fruit growers are being sidelined while the same individuals continue to be nominated repeatedly.
The allegations have come in the wake of an exposure-cum-learning programme organised at the Directorate of Extension, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) on July 20, in which around 100 orchardists from Bandipora participated. Earlier, on June 16, another batch of 107 farmers from the district attended a similar programme under the national campaign “Khet Bachao Abhiyan.”
Several orchardists alleged that the beneficiary selection process lacks transparency and fairness.
“The government spends public money so that genuine orchardists can learn modern horticulture practices. Unfortunately, the same people are repeatedly selected while hundreds of deserving orchardists, especially from far-flung villages, are never given an opportunity,” they said.
The farmers alleged that some of the participants in the programmes do not even own an inch of orchard land.
“It is surprising to see people attending orchard-based exposure tours despite having no orchards. Genuine apple growers who have been cultivating orchards for decades are left out every time. The department must explain how such beneficiaries are being selected,” an orchardist said.
Another grower alleged that the selection process is influenced by personal contacts rather than merit.
“There is a clear perception among farmers that preference is being given to individuals having close links with officials or those residing near departmental offices. If this continues, these programmes will lose their credibility,” he said.
The orchardists demanded that the government order an independent inquiry into the selection process, verify the horticultural credentials of all beneficiaries, examine whether the same individuals have repeatedly availed such benefits over the years, and ensure village-wise representation through a transparent rotational system.
They said such programmes are meant to strengthen the horticulture sector across the district and not to benefit a limited group of individuals.
When contacted, the Chief Horticulture Officer of Bandipora told KNS that his office had already received complaints regarding the issue.
“I have received several complaints about the selection of beneficiaries. I have already directed all Horticulture Zones to submit complete details of orchardists, as well as the list of individuals who participated in the exposure tours. The matter is being verified, and appropriate action will be taken if any irregularities are found,” the Chief Horticulture Officer said.
When contacted, the Director Horticulture, Kashmir said he would seek a detailed report on the matter before commenting further.
“Let me enquire from the Chief Horticulture Officer, Bandipora, regarding these allegations. I will look into the matter,” the Director told.
The issue has sparked resentment among many orchardists, who have urged the higher authorities to ensure transparency, accountability and equal opportunities in all future government-sponsored training and exposure programmes, saying only a fair and inclusive selection process can fulfil the objective of empowering the farming community. (KNS)
