Many PDP leaders detained for bid to protest seeking insurance for hail-hit apple orchards in Kashmir
Peoples Democratic Party leaders were detained in Kashmir while attempting to protest for crop insurance for apple orchardists. The protest followed significant damage to orchards caused by recent hailstorms in the region.
Why it matters
Highlights the ongoing political tensions in Kashmir and the economic vulnerability of the region's horticulture-dependent economy.
Several leaders of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were allegedly detained in South Kashmir’s Shopian on Sunday (August 16, 2026) when they made a bid to hold protests to push for a comprehensive crop insurance scheme for apple orchardists in Kashmir.
Former PDP legislator Aijaz Ahmad Mir, who was among those detained in Shopian, has been advocating for inclusion of apples and cherries under a comprehensive Crop Insurance Scheme.
“Farmers affected by recent hail storms and other natural calamities should be granted full compensation. Farmers need 100% subsidy on anti-hail nets to protect orchards from future weather-related losses,” said Mr. Mir.
Horticulture is the mainstay of the economy in south Kashmir, with Shopian, Kulgam and Pulwama emerging as major apple-exporting hubs. “The horticulture sector is the backbone of our economy, and our farmers deserve protection, security, and justice,” said Mr. Mir.
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