Srinagar, June 28: The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) in partnership with the National Centre for Cold Chain Development (NCCD) organised a significant awareness session with the Jammu Kashmir Fruit Association on Friday.
The event, chaired by Rahul Sahai of PHDCCI Jammu, was graced by Asheesh Fotedar, Chief Operating Officer (COO) from NCCD, a department under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India.
The session aimed to address crucial issues surrounding the promotion of cold chain storage in the region and other challenges faced by the Jammu Kashmir Fruit Association, the PHDCCI said in a press release. Leading the association were Parveen Kumar Gupta, President; Atul Ghai, Vice President; Nitin Jain, General Secretary; Rajesh Gupta, Secretary; Ashok Gupta, Treasurer, and other members.
Key highlights of the meeting included discussions on enhancing cold chain storage solutions in Jammu, leveraging government subsidies available for horticulture, and promoting the unique produce of the Chenab Valley. Members highlighted the importance of products like Gucchi, apple, anardana, plum, and kesar, and their potential for local and national markets.
Asheesh Fotedar provided valuable insights into government subsidies for horticulture. He urged the members to capitalise on these opportunities and stressed the importance of effective communication with the Union Territory and Government of India to resolve pertinent issues promptly.
Rahul Sahai raised concerns about expired lease deeds affecting the Jammu Kashmir Fruit Association, urging collaborative efforts for resolution. Both leaders suggested proactive measures, including the formation of a unified traders’ association encompassing Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from all parties to foster collaborative efforts for advancing cold chain storage solutions and overall horticultural development in Jammu and Kashmir. PHDCCI and NCCD pledged to hold regular online interactions with the Jammu Kashmir Fruit Association to enhance awareness of various Government of India schemes.