JKPICCA President meets Commissioner Secretary
Discusses key issues including welfare of farmers
By: Mushtaq ul Islam
Pulwama: In a bid to address crucial concerns facing the region’s horticulture sector, Bashir Ahmad Naik, the newly elected President of the Jammu and Kashmir Fruits and Vegetables Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA), met Shailender Kumar IAS, Commissioner Secretary of the Agriculture Production Department.
The meeting focused on key challenges and opportunities within the sector, particularly regarding sustainable development and the welfare of farmers, a statement issued by the organisation said.
One of the main issues raised during the discussion was the improper disposal of rotten apples into the Rambi Ara stream, a practice that poses significant environmental risks. Naik assured the Commissioner Secretary that the Cold Storage (CA) sector would take collective responsibility for adopting more environmentally friendly waste disposal practices. In response, Kumar expressed the government’s commitment to supporting sustainable waste management solutions that align with the region’s ecological goals.
Additionally, both leaders discussed the future of the Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage industry, emphasizing the need for updated policies to foster industry growth and ensure that farmer welfare remains a priority. The meeting underscored the importance of creating a supportive ecosystem that balances industrial development with the protection of local agricultural interests.
JKPICCA reiterated its dedication to promoting sustainable practices within the horticulture sector and stressed the association’s role in enhancing farmer incomes and contributing to regional prosperity. The association also committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders to build a responsible value chain that benefits all parties involved.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to advancing the sector through a combination of policy reforms, environmentally sustainable practices, and a unified approach to addressing the needs of both farmers and the industry at large.
