Shimla, April 11: State BJP spokesperson Chetan Singh Bragta has sharply criticised the Congress-led state government, accusing it of neglecting the interests of horticulturists struggling to protect their crops from hailstorms.
Bragta claimed that ever since the Congress came to power, the challenges faced by farmers have only intensified.
Highlighting the plight of horticulturists, Bragta said that growers across the state are installing anti-hail nets at their own expense, bearing a substantial financial burden due to the government’s indifference.
He recalled that during the previous BJP government, a subsidy of up to 80% was provided on anti-hail nets, which had brought significant relief to thousands of farmers.
He further alleged that the Congress government has not only stalled the scheme but also withheld the payment of subsidies that had already been sanctioned.
"The state government is misleading people by claiming an empty treasury as the reason for non-payment," Bragta stated, adding that the central government has already released its share of the subsidy to the state.
Calling horticulture the backbone of the state's economy, Bragta emphasised that the continued neglect of farmers amounts to a grave injustice.
He urged the state government to immediately disburse the pending subsidies to support the horticulturists and safeguard the future of the sector.
