JKPICCA pushes for cold storage upgrades in pre-budget discussion

Kashmir: The Jammu and Kashmir Fruits and Vegetables Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA) took part in the Pre-Budget 2025 discussion with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. In this meeting, discussion occurred on essential reforms for J&K’s horticulture and industrial sectors. The crop insurance scheme for horticulture was one of the major demands discussed, especially for apple crops, to protect farmers from natural calamities and market risks.

JKPICCA President Bashir Ahmad Naik, General Secretary Malik Ishfaq, member Ubair Shah, and other representatives were present in the conference to boost the horticulture sector in the region as well as the economy. JKPICCA also proposed an Inland Container Depot (ICD) with the aim of improving apple exports and reducing logistical hurdles.

Also Read: Get glowing skin naturally through hibiscus flowers

Several vital issues were also touched, such as providing quality pesticides and fertilizers to farmers, establishing mobile inspection labs and flying squads to prevent the distribution of low-quality agri-inputs, and increasing the cold storage and processing facilities in North and Central Kashmir.

Focus was given on infrastructure development like better roads, drainage, lighting, and security. Besides this, JKPICCA called for subsidies for renewable energy in industries and full government coverage of insurance premiums for industrial units.

Farmers will get financial support for the installation of anti-hail technology, support for pending Controlled Atmosphere storage projects, and other measures were stressed to renew the horticulture sector.

JKPICCA’s proposals aim to boost the economy of the farmers, improving their conditions and making the horticulture sector a big source of valley’s economy.