Pulwama, 24 April: The Jammu and Kashmir Fruit and Vegetable Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA) has extended its sincere appreciation to the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union for highlighting the various concerns raised by growers in their recent press note.
“As an organization deeply committed to the welfare of growers in the horticulture sector, we acknowledge and prioritize these concerns”, JKPICCA said in a statement to Ziraat Times on Sunday.
In response to the gravity of the situation, JKPICCA promptly convened a meeting to address the raised concerns. Our objective is to thoroughly investigate the root causes and take immediate actions. We are fully committed to engaging with all stakeholders in the apple-growing community, fostering an environment of collaboration. The insights provided by growers are invaluable, and we are determined to find effective solutions that benefit the entire industry, the statement further said.
Asserting that JKPICCA recognizes the adverse impact of recent hailstorms, gusty winds, and changing weather patterns in various parts of Kashmir on fruit orchards, resulting in significant losses for growers, the association said that the influx of spurious pesticides and imported fruit has intensified the challenges faced by apple growers.
Given these multifaceted concerns, JKPICCA is actively collaborating with farmers to alleviate their distress. We are exploring various avenues to assist growers in mitigating these challenges and optimizing the benefits of fruit storage. Additionally, we are committed to addressing the issue of imported fruit and safeguarding the interests of local growers, the statement added.
“Moreover, we acknowledge that excessive fruit availability has adversely affected the market. JKPICCA is dedicated to working towards restoring market equilibrium and ensuring fair pricing for growers and dealers”, the association further said.
We remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering a supportive environment for fruit growers in the valley. Our efforts are directed towards addressing these concerns and ensuring the long-term sustainability and prosperity of the horticulture sector in Kashmir, JKPICCA asserted.
