Srinagar, May 28 (JKNS): The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), in collaboration with Fruit Master Agro Fresh Pvt. Ltd., successfully organised a Farmers Capacity Development Programme in Kashmir aimed at enhancing the capabilities of farmers for export of fresh fruits from the region.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) across Jammu & Kashmir along with individual progressive farmers. The initiative focused on building awareness regarding export opportunities, international quality standards, modern farming practices, and challenges faced by growers in accessing global markets.
During the interactive session, farmers engaged with experts from APEDA and discussed various on-ground challenges related to export readiness, quality management, market access, and infrastructure requirements.
Ms. Sehreena, Regional Head, APEDA J&K, addressed the participants and highlighted the important role of APEDA in promoting agricultural exports from the region. She informed farmers about the various support mechanisms and export promotion initiatives available through APEDA and encouraged them to focus on producing high-quality fruits suitable for international markets. She assured the farming community of APEDA’s continued support in strengthening fresh fruit exports from Jammu & Kashmir.
Mr. Izhan Javeed, CEO of Fruit Master Agro Fresh Pvt. Ltd., while interacting with the farmers, emphasised that produce from Jammu & Kashmir has the potential to compete globally provided there is consistent focus on quality, productivity, and reliability in supply. He highlighted the importance of reducing production costs and adopting modern farming techniques to make farmers export-ready and enhance their incomes sustainably.
Technical sessions during the programme were conducted by experts from Orchardly, who focused on sustainability, export-oriented cultivation practices, and improving quality standards in fresh produce. The experts stressed the importance of producing MRL-compliant fruits for export markets and guided farmers on addressing quality-related challenges to meet international standards.
The programme was also attended by officials from the District Industries Centre (DIC), Agriculture Department, and Department of Horticulture & Horticulture Planning & Marketing, J&K, who interacted with farmers and discussed various government initiatives aimed at strengthening the horticulture ecosystem in the region.
The programme marked another important step towards strengthening Jammu & Kashmir’s position as a key exporter of premium fresh fruits and empowering farmers with the knowledge and tools required to access global markets successfully.
