AUG 06: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated a series of major agricultural infrastructure projects in Jammu, emphasizing that sustainable growth in Jammu and Kashmir requires inclusive and balanced regional development.
Speaking at the J&K Agro Industries Development Corporation Complex in Talab Tillo, the CM inaugurated a 5,145-MT cold storage facility built with support from NABARD. The advanced facility features 21 cold chambers and four ripening chambers, equipped with automated climate control, Freon-based refrigeration, solar-powered backup, SCADA monitoring, and dedicated docking bays. These features aim to reduce post-harvest losses and improve the shelf life of perishables.
“Infrastructure should empower farmers by adding value to their produce and ensuring resilience,” said Omar, underlining the importance of robust support systems across agriculture, trade, tourism, and manufacturing.
Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmad Dar outlined schemes under HADP and ongoing efforts to expand mandis and reduce crop wastage.
Later, at Narwal Fruit Mandi, he launched four agri-processing units: a 2,000-MT cold store with sub-zero chambers for high-value fruits, a Common Incubation Centre for dairy and bakery under PM-FME, a 120-MT pack house for onions and potatoes, and a display centre for agri-horti tools.
Highlighting growing youth and women participation in agriculture, the CM said that rising enrolment in SKUAST-Jammu reflects an evolving sector. Quoting “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” he affirmed agriculture’s foundational role in national development.
Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmad Dar outlined schemes under HADP and ongoing efforts to expand mandis and reduce crop wastage. He added that a sub-committee has been formed to resolve lease and market issues affecting fruit traders.
Minister Satish Sharma reaffirmed the UT’s commitment to equitable development, while MLA Vikram Randhawa called the mandis vital economic hubs. Managing Director JKHPMC Farooq Ahmed Dar welcomed the initiatives, noting their role in linking production, processing, and market access.
The new facilities will benefit farmers across Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Udhampur, Rajouri, and Poonch by enhancing storage, market access, and job creation in logistics and agri-processing.
