Srinagar witnessed a significant development as Director Agriculture Kashmir, Sartaj Ahmad Shah, unveiled a state-of-the-art mobile air-conditioned van dedicated to enhancing post-harvest infrastructure in the region. The initiative aims to provide the farming community with efficient transportation solutions for perishable produce, ultimately benefiting farmers and improving market access.

The newly introduced vehicle is specifically designed to ensure the safe and temperature-controlled movement of fruits, vegetables, and other perishables within the Kashmir Valley and to markets outside the region. This strategic move is part of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), a flagship initiative by the Agriculture Production Department.

Addressing crucial challenges faced by farmers, including post-harvest losses, lack of refrigerated transport facilities, and quality degradation during transit, the mobile air-conditioned van is set to make a significant impact. Director Sartaj Ahmad Shah emphasized the government’s dedication to farmer welfare and agricultural modernization through this practical intervention.

By reducing post-harvest losses, preserving the freshness and quality of farm produce, and enhancing market access for growers, the new transportation facility is expected to revolutionize the agricultural landscape in the Kashmir Valley. It will enable farmers to transport their produce to distant markets in optimal conditions, securing better prices and contributing to the overall growth of the agricultural economy.

Equipped with advanced cooling and air-conditioning systems, the van ensures optimal temperature and humidity levels during transportation, minimizing damage to delicate crops. This facility is poised to benefit small and marginal farmers, cooperatives, and producer groups by offering an affordable and efficient transport solution.

The initiative aligns with the overarching goals of the HADP, focusing on infrastructure development, value addition, improved market linkages, and sustainable growth in agriculture and allied sectors across Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Agriculture Officer Srinagar, Ajaz Hussain Dar, and other senior department officers graced the occasion, underscoring the importance of this milestone in agricultural development.

With the introduction of the mobile air-conditioned van, farmers in the Kashmir Valley can look forward to enhanced post-harvest infrastructure, improved market access, and sustainable growth opportunities in the agricultural sector. This transformative initiative marks a significant step towards modernizing agricultural practices and supporting farmer livelihoods in the region.