Srinagar, April 21 -- Following widespread damage to orchards and farmlands in Kashmir due to rains, hailstorms and gusty winds, the Jammu and Kashmir government has mobilised its official machinery to assess the losses in order to provide compensation to the farmers.

Thousands of farmers, particularly in the south Kashmir's districts of Shopian and Kulgam, have been affected by rains and hail storms on Friday and Saturday.

Minister of health, social welfare and education Sakeena Itoo on Saturday said this weather calamity has dealt a significant blow to thousands of orchardists and farmers, many of whom are completely relying on the upcoming harvest season for their livelihood. "Our government completely stands with the farming communi...