Srinagar, Mar 07 : A delegation from the Jammu and Kashmir Fruits and Vegetables Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA), led by its President, Mr. Bashir Ahmad Naikoo, met with the Lieutenant Governor to discuss critical issues affecting the fruit and vegetable sector in the region.
The delegation raised concerns over the delay in state subsidies, urging the administration to expedite the disbursement process. They emphasized that timely financial support is crucial for the sustainability of the industry and for ensuring that stakeholders receive their due benefits without unnecessary delays.
A key issue brought to the LG’s attention was the halting of fruit-laden trucks from Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage facilities due to recent one-way traffic restrictions. The delegation stressed the need for uninterrupted movement of trucks to facilitate the timely delivery of fruits to markets across the country, which is essential for maintaining quality and preventing financial losses for growers and traders.
Additionally, the delegation highlighted concerns over the sale of spurious pesticides and fungicides, urging strict government intervention to curb counterfeit agrochemicals. They warned that unchecked use of such products poses a serious threat to crop health and the livelihoods of farmers, calling for stringent regulatory measures.
Beyond these immediate concerns, the delegation also discussed other pressing sectoral challenges and sought the LG’s intervention in implementing effective policies to support farmers and industry stakeholders.
JKPICCA reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the government to safeguard the interests of the region’s fruit and vegetable sector and ensure its sustainable growth.