*Spider mite infestation sparks concern among apple growers in south Kashmir*

Shopian, Jul A fresh pest outbreak has raised concern among apple growers in south Kashmir, as the spider mite infestation has been reported in several areas of Anantnag and Shopian districts, compounding the existing challenges faced by orchardists after the earlier outbreak of leaf miner.

Growers from Zainapora subdivision in Shopian and Dachnipora hamlet of Anantnag district have observed widespread damage to their orchards caused by spider mites — a pest previously uncommon in the region.

“We first noticed the spider mite recently and sprayed insecticides, which initially worked,” said Tanveer Ahmad, an orchardist from Zainapora. “But now the pest is back and has spread to more areas. This is creating serious distress for us.”

Farmers believe the infestation may have originated from non-native high-density apple plants being imported without stringent quarantine measures.

“This pest wasn’t known in our orchards earlier. Just like leaf miner, which emerged in recent years, spider mite too seems to have arrived with imported apple plants,” said Bashir Ahmad Mir, a grower from Dachnipora. “We suspect these plants are not being properly checked at the quarantine level.”

Growers pointed out that the problem might be linked to apple plant material brought from European countries like Italy. They urged authorities to thoroughly investigate the source and tighten phytosanitary protocols.

“We are not against new technology or high-density plants, but authorities must ensure proper quarantine before these plants are distributed,” said another farmer from Dachnipora.

Officials from the horticulture department have visited the affected areas and collected samples for investigation. “Our teams have visited the locations, and samples are being examined. We urge farmers to strictly adhere to advisory guidelines,” a senior horticulture officer said. “These issues arise when standard advisories on plant care and pest control are not followed properly. For now, the situation is under control.”

Despite the official assurances, farmers continue to worry about the future of their produce. With apple farming being the backbone of South Kashmir’s rural economy, the emergence of newer pests like the spider mite is a blow they can ill afford.

“Our orchards are our lifeline. The government must act swiftly and transparently to identify the origin and ensure such threats don’t recur,” They said.

They have demanded a high-level inquiry in this regard so that things can get clear and necessary steps can be taken accordingly—