JAMMU, April 7 -- Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, has expressed deep concern over the widespread damage caused by the hailstorm, which severely affected many orchards and farmlands in several areas of Kulgam and Shopian districts.

The Minister said that this unforeseen weather calamity has dealt a huge blow to thousands of orchardists and farmers, who are completely relying on the upcoming harvest season for their livelihood.

After receiving reports of a hailstorm, the Minister established direct communication with the district administration and took a detailed assessment from them regarding the impact of the hailstorm. She directed the Deputy Commissioner Kulgam to carry out immed...