Jammu, January 12: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) president Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Monday reaffirmed his party’s commitment to developing Jammu as a major business hub in North India, citing the region’s growing economic and commercial potential.
Dr. Abdullah made these remarks during an interactive meeting with representatives of the Fruit Mandi Association, Narwal, Jammu, who shared their concerns and proposals related to the growth and modernization of the local fruit trade.
Accompanied by JKNC Jammu Provincial President Rattan Lal Gupta, Dr. Abdullah was warmly received by members of the association. He held detailed discussions with Raj Kumar Gupta and other office bearers, focusing on issues affecting fruit traders and the need for improved infrastructure at the mandi.
The association raised several immediate concerns, including the urgent renewal of lease deeds for shopkeepers, upgradation of the park adjacent to the mandi, and expansion of the facility to meet global standards. Members also highlighted deficiencies in basic civic amenities such as roads, parking, sanitation, and waste management, and stressed the need for reliable electricity to support fruit processing and cold storage operations.
In addition to short-term issues, the association outlined long-term measures to strengthen the fruit business in Jammu. These included the establishment of post-harvest and quality control units, introduction of controlled atmosphere (CA) storage facilities to extend shelf life, and installation of hi-tech grading lines and portable graders to standardize produce. The association also called for setting up laboratories for physical, chemical, and microbiological testing, dedicated processing units, and a dispensary for mandi workers.
Rattan Lal Gupta endorsed the demands, describing them as genuine and justified, and emphasized the need for timely intervention to support the fruit trade.
Assuring the delegation of his support, Dr. Farooq Abdullah said he would take up the issues with the concerned ministers and departments to ensure prompt action. He underlined the importance of Jammu’s agricultural and business sectors in driving the overall economic development of the Union Territory and said the government led by Omar Abdullah was committed to facilitating their growth.
“Jammu has immense potential as a business hub. Initiatives like these will not only strengthen local economies but also generate employment opportunities for the youth,” Dr. Abdullah said.
The Fruit Mandi Association expressed gratitude for Dr. Abdullah’s visit and support, and voiced optimism that their concerns would be addressed on priority. Among those present at the meeting were Vijay Lochan, Chairman SC Cell, Rakesh Singh Raka, Vice President Central Zone, and other party leaders and association members.
