SRINAGAR, JUNE 18 : In a landmark moment for Kashmir’s fruit industry, a premium consignment of Kashmiri cherries has, for the first time, made its way to markets in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, carried by the first-ever dedicated “cherry train” from the Valley to Delhi on June 1.
The move not only marks a global debut for the fruit but also signals a major breakthrough in cold-chain logistics, promising a new future for the region’s high-value crops.
Kashmir produces nearly 15,000 metric tonnes of cherries annually, making it India’s largest cherry-producing region. Known for their vibrant colour and juicy texture, these cherries have traditionally remained confined to local markets due to logistical limitations and a short harvest window.
“This isn’t just a fruit export — it’s the start of a transformation,” said Fayaz Ahmad Rather, a third-generation grower from Baramulla. “Our cherries have always been prized, but now, for the first time, they’re getting the market they deserve.”
The consignment — sourced from orchards in Ganderbal, Shopian, and Baramulla — was packed in refrigerated containers and shipped to Delhi via the newly launched cherry train. From there, it was airlifted to the Gulf, significantly cutting spoilage and preserving freshness.
Growers and trade bodies have welcomed the move and are calling for its expansion. “The cherries reaching UAE and Saudi Arabia is a milestone,” said Basheer Ahmad Bashir, President of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers and Dealers Union. “We now urge the government to scale up the daily export quantity so that more farmers benefit.”
Bashir also reiterated the long-pending demand for an “Apple Express” — a dedicated train to ferry apples from Kashmir to Delhi and beyond — to boost the Valley’s ₹12,000 crore apple industry. He said the Centre is actively considering the proposal, with an announcement expected next year.
For growers who have struggled with market glut and price crashes in domestic mandis, the development offers renewed hope. “We used to sell at distress prices when local markets were flooded,” said Imtiyaz Ahmad, a grower from Shopian. “To see our produce on shelves in Dubai is emotional, it feels like Kashmir is finally being recognised.”
“I never imagined this day,” echoed Ghulam Nabi Wani from Ganderbal. “After 30 years in this business, seeing my cherries reach Riyadh is nothing short of a dream.”
The cherry export is part of a broader government push to position Jammu and Kashmir as an agri-export hub. In collaboration with Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Ministry of Agriculture, efforts are underway to develop robust cold chains, global-standard packaging units, and direct market linkages for crops such as apples, pears, plums, and walnuts.
The success of this first shipment has sparked optimism across the Valley, with growers now pinning hopes on consistent support and enhanced volume in the upcoming seasons.
HIGHLIGHTS
June 1: First cherry train from Katra to Mumbai ferried 24 tons.
June 1–18: Total 260 tons of cherries shipped via Katra.
4–8 tons daily sent to Mumbai via Swaraj Express.
