Anti-Hail Net Demand Survey: An Important Initiative for Orchard Protection

Apple and fruit cultivation in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand is the primary source of livelihood for thousands of families. However, in recent years, climate change—especially frequent hailstorms and bird attacks—has severely affected fruit safety and production capacity. In many regions, hailstorms occur 2 to 5 times every year, resulting in a sharp decline in fruit size, quality, colour, and overall yield. Consequently, farmers suffer financial losses amounting to several lakh rupees every season.

To address these challenges, Sarvangeen Krishi Samadhan Foundation (www.krishisamadhan.org) has launched a special Anti-Hail Net Demand Survey. The objective of this survey is to understand the actual needs of orchardists, scientifically assess the demand for anti-hail and anti-bird nets, and make advance arrangements for providing adequate material in the future.

The foundation aims to supply high-quality anti-hail nets and anti-bird nets at prices lower than the market rate so that farmers can ensure maximum protection at minimum cost. This survey is completely free, and by participating, orchardists can share their requirements regarding area, structure type, net size, quality preference, and other important details.

Through this survey, the foundation is collecting the following important information:

• The total area under fruit cultivation and the crops farmers want to protect with nets.
• Frequency of hailstorms during the last three years and the level of damage caused.
• The percentage of the orchard area farmers want to cover with anti-hail nets and their preferred type of net and structure.
• Funding preferences—personal investment, KCC loan, or other financial options.
• Reasons for not installing anti-hail nets so far, such as high cost, lack of awareness, delays in subsidy, or low perceived need.

The purpose of this survey is not just data collection but developing an effective policy and action plan based on the safety needs of farmers. The insights gathered will help in significantly reducing crop losses in the coming years.

The last date to participate in this online survey is 31 December 2025.

Please register at the link given below:
https://survey.krishisamadhan.org/

Referral Points System

If you complete the survey form and share it with others, you will receive referral points:

• 2 points for sharing the survey link
• 5 points when someone completes the survey using your referral link

Referral Points & Medal Categories

The purpose of this point system is to encourage cooperation among farmers. It also helps identify how farmers support each other in adopting protective measures and working collectively for the safety of their orchards. The most active participants may also be given special roles and social responsibilities by the foundation in the future.

Conclusion

Hailstorms and bird attacks pose a serious threat to fruit cultivation. By adopting timely and appropriate protection measures, farmers can safeguard both their hard work and their income. The Anti-Hail Net Demand Survey is an important step in this direction, ensuring that future planning and material availability are aligned with the actual needs of orchardists.

All orchardists are requested to participate in this survey and provide accurate information. Your contribution is extremely valuable for the future of fruit production and the long-term security of horticulture.