SRINAGAR: In a grand event underscoring the critical role of Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture sector, the Jammu and Kashmir Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA) hosted a felicitation ceremony in Srinagar on Sunday. The gathering marked a leadership transition in the association and brought together top officials, political representatives, and stakeholders to address the pressing issues facing the sector.
Presiding as the Chief Guest, Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development Department, and Panchayati Raj, Javid Ahmad Dar, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the horticulture sector. He emphasised the sector’s importance, noting that 70 to 80 per cent of the population in Jammu and Kashmir is connected to it, and it makes a significant contribution to the Union Territory’s GDP.
Dar outlined the government’s ongoing and planned initiatives, which include expanding the area under horticulture, rejuvenating old orchards, improving productivity, strengthening irrigation infrastructure, promoting farm mechanisation, and adopting advanced technologies. He also stressed the need to address market access, post-harvest management, quality control, and the availability of pesticides.
“The government is focused on empowering growers and strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s reputation as a leading producer of high-quality horticultural products like apples and walnuts,” Dar said.
The ceremony marked the handover of leadership as outgoing JKPICCA President Maajid Aslam Wafai was succeeded by Bashir Ahmad Naik. Minister Dar presented the election certificate to Naik and lauded Wafai’s contributions to the sector. The Minister urged the new leadership to continue fostering growth and innovation.
In his inaugural address, Naik pledged to work collaboratively with stakeholders to address challenges and build on the association’s strong foundations.
A comprehensive position paper titled Horticulture in J&K was unveiled, providing insights into the sector’s challenges and strategic recommendations for sustainable growth.
Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, proposed the formation of a stakeholder advisory committee to guide policy development. He also called for a robust post-harvest management system and better cold-chain infrastructure.
The Minister announced plans for a stakeholder workshop to ensure an inclusive approach to resolving sectoral challenges.
JKPICCA presented a memorandum to the Minister detailing the immediate issues requiring government intervention, including the smooth transit of fruit-laden trucks on highways and the regulation of imports.
The felicitation ceremony not only celebrated JKPICCA’s new leadership but also served as a vital forum to address the sector’s future. With the government’s renewed commitment, collaborative efforts among stakeholders, and strategic initiatives in the pipeline, Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture sector is poised for transformative growth.
