SEP 22:In a significant move to support Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture sector, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, IT, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, today flagged off fruit-laden trucks of the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) from the Kashmir Valley to various states across India.
The initiative is aimed at ensuring timely and hassle-free transportation of the Valley’s fresh fruit produce, which plays a crucial role in the region’s economy. Addressing the gathering, Minister Sharma reiterated that horticulture is the backbone of J&K’s economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing heavily to its GDP.
He emphasized that timely transportation is essential to secure better market prices for the growers and to minimize post-harvest losses. “When fruits reach the markets on time and in good condition, growers benefit financially, and the credibility of Kashmiri produce is maintained,” the Minister said.
Highlighting the steps being taken by the government, Sharma informed that JKRTC is actively deploying additional trucks in real time to meet transport demands during the peak harvest season. The corporation is also working closely with traffic management authorities to ensure smooth flow and prevent delays that could damage perishable produce.
He assured fruit growers that the government is fully committed to supporting the horticulture industry through logistics improvements, real-time monitoring, and inter-departmental coordination.
This move is expected to significantly ease logistical bottlenecks during the high-demand season and improve returns for thousands of growers in the Valley. It also reflects the administration’s focus on modernizing supply chains and strengthening agricultural exports from the region.
The flagging-off event marks a vital step toward enhancing the efficiency of Kashmir’s fruit trade and reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of its farming community.
