Srinager, Feb 11 : The Jammu and Kashmir Fruits and Vegetables Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA) has successfully concluded a high-level Pre-Budget 2025 meeting with the Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir UT , Omar Abdullah . The meeting focused on addressing critical issues in the industrial and horticulture sectors.
During the meeting, JKPICCA president Bashir Ahmad Naik presented the budget proposal, highlighting the urgent needs of the horticulture and industrial sectors. The CM expressed keen interest in the proposals and reaffirmed the J&K Government’s commitment to supporting stakeholders. Introduction of a dedicated insurance scheme for horticulture, particularly for apple crops, to protect farmers from financial losses.Establishment of an ICD in Kashmir to streamline apple exports and enhance trade efficiency. Setting up outlets of Pesticides at Block, Tehsil, and District levels to ensure easy access to quality inputs for farmers. Deployment of inspection units to curb the sale of substandard pesticides and fertilizers and to monitor the MRP on pesticides.
Strengthening cold storage and processing facilities in North and Central Kashmir.Upgrading infrastructure, including roads, drainage, lighting, security, and the establishment of a 20-bed hospital in Lassipora and Connectivity with National Highways & Railway Station.Enhancing sanitation services for an improved industrial and residential environment.Encouraging solar energy adoption through incentives and subsidies.Ensuring complete insurance coverage for industrial units.Promoting anti-hail cannons to safeguard crops against hailstorms.Securing financial support for 26 Controlled Atmosphere (CA) stores awaiting assistance.At the conclusion of the meeting, Mr. Bashir Ahmad Naik expressed gratitude to the Hon’ble CM for his proactive approach and genuine interest in the concerns of the industrial and horticulture sectors. He emphasized that these proposals, if incorporated into the upcoming budget, will ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for growers and industrialists in J&K UT.
