Growers Celebrate as Global Export Marks New Era for Valley’s Horticulture Sector
Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD)In a historic milestone for Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture sector, a premium commercial consignment of cherries has reached Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, marking the region’s first significant entry into Gulf markets. The achievement was made even more notable as the consignment was transported through the first-ever dedicated “Cherry Train” from the Union Territory — a move hailed as transformative by fruit growers and officials alike.
The cherries, sourced from the orchards of Ganderbal, Shopian, and Baramulla, were shipped using specialized cold-chain logistics to ensure their quality remained intact from orchard to overseas shelf. The cherry train, equipped with refrigerated containers, played a vital role in maintaining freshness during the initial leg of the journey to international transit hubs.
This logistical innovation has been praised by growers, many of whom have long awaited a reliable system to move perishable fruit to distant markets.
“The cherry train has changed everything,” said Farooq Ahmad Dar, a grower from Ganderbal. “Earlier, we faced massive losses due to delays and spoilage. Now our fruit reaches the market in top condition, and the fact that it’s being sold in Saudi and UAE is a dream come true.”
Shabir Hussain, an orchardist from Shopian, added, “We never thought our cherries would be on supermarket shelves in the Gulf. This isn’t just an export — it’s a recognition of the quality we’ve nurtured for years.”
Officials confirmed that the cherry train initiative is part of a broader government strategy to integrate Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture sector with global m rkets. The effort is being supported by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), and the UT administration.
A senior horticulture official stated:
“This is a significant beginning. The cherry train is the first of its kind from J&K, and the successful export to the Gulf validates the enormous potential of our fresh produce. We plan to expand similar services for apples, walnuts, and other fruits.”
Experts believe the export will not only raise the profile of Kashmiri cherries internationally but also boost farmer incomes, reduce post-harvest losses, and stimulate investment in cold storage, grading, and packaging infrastructure.
As the Valley’s cherries find a new audience abroad, this development represents more than just a commercial success — it symbolizes a revival of confidence among Kashmir’s fruit growers and a step toward turning the region into a global fruit-export hub.(DD)
