PHDCCI Kashmir thanks J&K Govt for including 12 crops in high density scheme

Srinagar, Aug 1: The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry has  ccongratulated Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Principal Secretary Agriculture Production Shailendra Kumar, and CEO-MD of JK Bank Ltd, Baldev Prakash, for their decision to include 12 crops in the High Density Plantation Scheme.

“This remarkable initiative is a significant step towards the economic development of farmers in Jammu and Kashmir”, the PHD Chamber said in a statement to Ziraat Times.

Led by Chair A P Vicky Shaw, a delegation from the PHD Chamber Kashmir held a meeting with Principal Secretary Shailendra Kumar to express gratitude for the government’s holistic agriculture development scheme. During the meeting, the delegation proposed collaboration with the government to organize the annual Apple Festival-2023, supporting the agricultural community and fostering national and international linkages.

The delegation also discussed the upcoming J&K Cold Chain Summit, organized in association with the National Centre for Cold Chain Development (NCCD), to ensure successful execution of these key events. On-spot directions were issued by the Principal Secretary to facilitate smooth organization and conduct.

Addressing various pertinent issues, the PHD Chamber Kashmir emphasized the need for developing the Wool Industry under the Ministry of MSME GOI’s Micro and Small Enterprises Cluster Development Programme (MSE CDP Scheme). Additionally, it advocated for establishing an Export Promotion Policy for the Agriculture Sector to recognize its potential for growth.

Furthermore, the Chamber highlighted the significance of plantation drives along highways and city roads to promote a greener environment and provide economic opportunities to local communities. The Chamber also discussed challenges faced by horticulture stakeholders in implementing various schemes, including limited availability of concrete posts and anti-competitive measures in apple high-density plantation.

The receptive Principal Secretary assured support to genuine entrepreneurs and outlined infrastructure development projects already sanctioned to address logistical issues faced by the fruit industry. The meeting concluded with a commitment to fostering a flourishing agricultural sector and supporting the progress and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir.

The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry deeply appreciates the efforts of the J&K Government and looks forward to collaborating with various stakeholders to bring impactful change in the agriculture sector. The delegation comprises Himayu Wani, Bilal Kawoosa, Haleem Bhat, Ubair Shah, Fayaz Ahamd, Nasir Rather, and Deputy Director Iqbal Fayaz Jan.