Srinagar, July 10 (ANB):
A delegation from the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), Kashmir chapter, led by Chairman Mr. Vicky Shaw and Co-Chair Mr. Javaid Anim, met with Shri Javaid Ahmad Dar, Hon’ble Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, and Panchayati Raj, at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar on Wednesday.
The high-level meeting focused on key policy challenges and growth opportunities in the agriculture, horticulture, and allied sectors across Jammu & Kashmir. Also part of the delegation were Executive Committee members Mr. Bilal Kawoosa, Mr. Fayaz Ahmad, Mr. Nasir Rather, and Deputy Director Mr. Iqbal Fayaz Jan.
During the discussion, the delegation emphasized several pressing issues, including the need for immediate approvals of cold storage infrastructure and the integration of cold rooms under the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP). Concerns were also raised over the unregulated import of planting material, escalating costs under the High-Density Apple Plantation Scheme, and the need for pricing rationalization.
Among the key recommendations presented to the Minister were:
Restrictions on apple imports to protect local growers.
Export incentives to boost the competitiveness of apple producers.
A mid-term review of HADP and the J&K Industrial Policy for effective course correction.
Establishment of a revolving fund for wool procurement to support artisans.
Allocation of financial resources for cattle breeding farms and integrated silk-wool cluster parks.
Promotion of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models in government-run nurseries to improve output and management.
The delegation also highlighted the successful rollout of the Poultry Entrepreneurship Training Program, conducted by PHDCCI in partnership with SIDBI across various districts, which has contributed to rural livelihood generation.
A key proposal discussed was the hosting of a flagship Agriculture & Horticulture Exhibition in both Jammu and Kashmir. The envisioned expo, in collaboration with the Agriculture Department, aims to showcase innovation, promote investment, and strengthen market linkages for farmers and agri-entrepreneurs.
Minister Javaid Ahmad Dar welcomed the delegation's insights and assured that their concerns and recommendations would be addressed on priority. He expressed particular appreciation for the proposed Agri-Horti Expo, acknowledging its potential to raise Jammu & Kashmir’s profile as an emerging hub for agricultural development.
PHDCCI-Kashmir thanked the Minister for his encouraging response and reaffirmed its commitment to work closely with the government for the inclusive and sustainable growth of the agri-economy in the Union Territory.
— ANB
