JKPICCA felicitates new office bearers

Srinagar, Nov 17: In a significant gathering that underscored the importance of Kashmir's horticulture sector, the Jammu and Kashmir Fruits and Vegetables Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA) organized an impressive felicitation ceremony to mark its leadership transition. The event, which drew prominent figures from across the political and agricultural spectrum, celebrated both outgoing and incoming office bearers while addressing crucial sector challenges.

Agricultural Production Minister Javaid Ahmad Dar, who presided over the ceremony as Chief Guest, was joined by Chief Minister's Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani as Guest of Honor. The event saw strong legislative representation with MLAs Farooq Ahmad Shah, Showkat Ganai, Riyaz Bedar n attendance.

The ceremony marked a significant transition as Bashir Ahmad Naik received his election certificate as the new President from the Minister, taking over from outgoing President Maajid Aslam Wafai. In his address, Advisor Wani praised Wafai's contributions to the sector's development during his tenure.

A major highlight of the event was the release of a comprehensive position paper titled "Horticulture in J&K," which outlines strategic initiatives for the sector's future growth. The document addresses critical challenges facing the industry and proposes sustainable solutions for long-term development.

The gathering served as a platform for substantive discussions on pressing issues, particularly the challenges faced in transporting fruit-laden trucks on the national highway and the need to adopt more sustainable growing practices with reduced chemical usage. Responding to these concerns, Advisor Wani proposed establishing an advisory committee representing all stakeholders to guide policy formulation.

Director Horticulture Zahoor Ahmad Mir and Director Handicrafts Mehmood Ahmad Shah contributed valuable insights on developing synergies between horticulture and other sectors. The event also saw active participation from industry leaders including KCCI President Javid Tenga, KVFGA President Basheer Ahmad Bashir, and FCIK Advisory Committee member Shahid Kamili.

In his inaugural address, newly elected President Bashir Ahmad Naik emphasised the need for collaborative efforts to address sector challenges. He acknowledged his predecessor's role in strengthening the association and pledged to build upon these foundations for future growth.

The Minister's announcement of a comprehensive stakeholder workshop demonstrated the government's commitment to addressing sector challenges through inclusive dialogue. This approach was welcomed by representatives from various fruit mandis, including Mohd Ashraf Mir from Shopian and Fayaz Ahmad from Sopore.