Strict Directions Issued After Complaints of Illegal Deductions and Unjustified Commissions Rock Asia’s Largest Fruit Mandi
Bilal Bhat
Srinagar | May 22
In a major relief for fruit growers across Kashmir, the has issued strict directions to curb alleged malpractices and unauthorized deductions at the historic following mounting complaints from the farming community.
The action comes after several fruit growers submitted representations alleging that certain traders and commission agents were imposing unjustified commissions and unauthorized deductions under the pretext of miscellaneous charges, causing financial distress to growers already struggling with rising input costs and market uncertainties.
Taking serious cognizance of the issue, Director Horticulture, Planning and Marketing J&K directed immediate intervention to ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness in fruit trade operations.
According to official communication issued through the Assistant Director (Administration) on behalf of the Director, the Area Marketing Officer Sopore has been instructed to conduct a thorough inquiry into the allegations and ensure that all forms of malpractice are stopped immediately.
The communication clearly states that no unauthorized commission or unjust deduction should be imposed on growers and that transparent trade practices must be maintained in the larger interest of the farming community.
When contacted, Director HP&M Ghulam Jeelani Zargar said the department has taken the matter seriously and directed traders and commission agents operating in the mandi to strictly follow legal and ethical practices.
“Any individual found violating established norms or indulging in malpractice will face appropriate action as per rules,” he said, reiterating the department’s commitment to protecting growers’ interests.
The Directorate has also sought an action-taken report from the concerned authorities to ensure implementation of the directions on ground.
The move has been widely welcomed by fruit growers and traders who believe the intervention could help restore trust and transparency in one of Kashmir’s most important agricultural trading hubs.
Several growers hailed the proactive role of Director HP&M Ghulam Jeelani Zargar, saying timely administrative intervention has sent a strong message that exploitation of growers will not be tolerated.
“This is the kind of governance farmers expect,” said one grower. “For years many people suffered silently due to unauthorized deductions. The department’s action has given hope to thousands of fruit growers connected with the mandi.”
Growers now hope that strict monitoring and accountability mechanisms will continue in the mandi so that Kashmir’s horticulture sector — considered the backbone of the Valley’s rural economy — functions with transparency, fairness, and protection for genuine stakeholders.
