Piyush Goyal discusses cold chain, Agro-Processing growth with JKPICCA in Srinagar

Srinagar, July 6, 2025: In a significant step toward bolstering Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural economy, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, met with representatives of the Jammu and Kashmir Fruits and Vegetable Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA) in Srinagar on Sunday. The meeting centered on strategic initiatives to advance the cold chain and agro-processing sectors, critical for enhancing export potential and ensuring sustainable industrial growth in the region.The discussions highlighted innovative approaches to modernize infrastructure, reduce post-harvest losses, and promote high-value produce like apples, walnuts, and saffron for global markets. JKPICCA representatives raised concerns about the region’s annual 25,000-tonne waste from the apple industry, underscoring the urgent need for robust waste management systems to address environmental and health challenges. Goyal emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting these efforts through schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY) and the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).The minister assured stakeholders of continued collaboration to strengthen supply chains, enhance processing capabilities, and position Jammu and Kashmir as a global hub for horticultural exports. This engagement reflects the Centre’s vision of transforming J&K’s agro-based industries into engines of economic growth and employment.