Srinagar, Sep 13: Concerned over the reports that some growers are exporting low quality fruits, the Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to strictly implement Market Regulation Act to ensure quality packaging and grading of the Kashmiri fruit.

Unfolding priorities of the government to promote Horticulture Industry in the state, Minister for Horticulture Mohammad Dilawar Mir has asked the officers to implement Kashmir Garden Fresh Brand scheme efficiently so that the quality fruit in bulk quantity is exported to outside markets.

Mr Mir directed the officers to introduce modern pre and post-harvest techniques to boost production and productivity of horticulture sector in a big way.

He called for rejuvenating old orchards along side bringing more areas under horticulture area expansion.

He also stressed for expanding marketing orbit of Jammu and Kashmir horticulture produce within and outside the country.

Speaking at a high level meeting held here today to review the performance of horticulture sector, the Minister said that the concerned officers and field functionaries should be given a fixed target for transparent achievement.

He said all the employees of horticulture sector presently on deputation in other departments should be withdrawn to make adequate manpower available for implementation of various schemes.

He also called for launching massive awareness and training programmes for the fruit growers and traders about various horticulture development aspects.

Minister also called for regulating Freight Rate Structure for transportation of fruits outside the valley especially during peak season so that middlemen and unscrupulous transport companies do not exploit fruit growers and traders.



UNI