AR Newsdesk
Srinagar, Feb 12: In a significant push to expand market access for Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture sector, the Department of Horticulture Planning and Marketing organized a high-level Buyer–Seller Meet at Hotel Samrat, New Delhi, bringing together growers, traders and national market stakeholders under the leadership of Director Ghulam Jeelani Zargar.
The one-day event facilitated participation of 80 progressive farmers, growers and traders representing all 20 districts of the Union Territory. The meet aimed at strengthening direct market linkages and enhancing trade opportunities for horticulture and allied produce from J&K.
Prominent traders from Azadpur Mandi, Khari Baoli, Naya Bazar, and adjoining states including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Hyderabad participated in the interaction. Stakeholders dealing in fruits, vegetables, dry fruits, pulses and processed food products held detailed business discussions with the visiting delegation, resulting in new trade linkages and potential commercial tie-ups.
Addressing the gathering, Director Horticulture Planning and Marketing, Ghulam Jeelani Zargar, delivered a comprehensive presentation showcasing the rich agricultural diversity of Jammu and Kashmir, the superior quality of its produce, and the growing export potential of various commodities. He emphasized the need for direct farmer-market integration and value-chain strengthening to enhance farmers’ income and market competitiveness.
Senior officials including representatives from APEDA, DMI, NHB and FICCI also spoke on export facilitation, cold-chain infrastructure and policy support for expanding national and international outreach.
Participants widely appreciated the Department’s initiative, describing it as a proactive step toward empowering farmers and integrating J&K’s horticulture sector with national markets.
The event marks another milestone in the UT’s efforts to position its horticulture produce competitively across India, with officials indicating that similar outreach programmes will be organized in the future to further strengthen market connectivity.
