Workshop held to train horticulture officers, entrepreneurs on cold chain standards
Srinagar, Jul 19: A day-long workshop on new engineering guidelines and minimum system standards for implementing cold chain components was held today at the Directorate of Horticulture Kashmir, aimed at strengthening post-harvest infrastructure across the Valley.
The training programme, chaired by Director Horticulture Kashmir Vikas Anand, brought together officers of the department, private entrepreneurs, and industry stakeholders. Experts from the Government of India, including Ashish Fotedar, Chief Operating Officer, and Manoj, Under Secretary for the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), conducted detailed sessions and responded to on-the-spot queries from participants.
The workshop focused on equipping participants with the latest operational knowledge aligned with updated engineering guidelines under MIDH. Two dedicated sessions featured in-depth discussions on practical implementation, system standards, and existing gaps in the Valley’s cold chain infrastructure.
Industry stakeholders, including presidents of Controlled Atmosphere (CA) Stores and representatives from the Chamber of Commerce (Food Processing), also shared their views on present challenges and future prospects.
On the occasion, a comprehensive guideline book titled *‘New Engineering Guidelines and Minimum System Standards for Implementation in Cold Chain Components’* was formally handed over to Director Horticulture Kashmir, who also serves as Mission Director, MIDH J&K.
Director Vikas Anand assured full support to stakeholders and instructed Chief Horticulture Officers and departmental staff to offer extensive handholding to farmers and players in the post-harvest sector.
The workshop was attended by the Chief Canning Instructor Kashmir, Chief Horticulture Officers of various districts, Assistant Director Horticulture Kashmir, presidents of JKPICCA, industry leaders, and representatives from the HANSA Group.
