Horticulture Deptt holds Buyer-Seller meet at Parimpora to boost market linkages

Srinagar, Mar 28: The Department of Horticulture Planning and Marketing, Jammu and Kashmir, on Saturday organised a Buyer-Seller Meet (BSM-4 for 2025–26) at the conference hall of the New Kashmir Fruit Association in Parimpora, aimed at strengthening market linkages and promoting agribusiness partnerships within and outside the Union Territory.

The event witnessed participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including growers, traders, commission agents, Farmer-Producer Organisations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), processors, exporters, and entrepreneurs.

The meet sought to facilitate direct interaction between buyers and sellers, with a focus on enhancing transparency and ensuring better price realisation for horticulture produce. It also provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange knowledge on Good Agricultural Practices, export potential, and integration with electronic market platforms such as e-NAM.

Officials reiterated the department’s commitment to supporting stakeholders by improving market access, conducting training programmes, and building capacity across the horticulture value chain. The meet enabled direct engagement between buyers and sellers from Srinagar, Ganderbal, Baramulla, Bandipora, and Sopore.

The programme was attended by the Deputy Director, Horticulture Planning and Marketing, Kashmir, who outlined the department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen marketing networks and expand opportunities for local producers in both domestic and external markets. She also highlighted key government initiatives, including the HADP and JKCIP schemes, aimed at reducing post-harvest losses and improving supply chain efficiency.

Representatives of various fruit and vegetable associations, along with members of FPOs and SHGs from multiple districts, shared their concerns and challenges faced in the trade sector.

The President of the New Kashmir Fruit Association appreciated the role of the department under the leadership of Director Ghulam Jeelani Zargar in promoting horticulture marketing and addressing issues faced by growers and traders.

The Buyer-Seller Meet is part of the department’s ongoing efforts to streamline horticulture marketing and enhance the competitiveness of local produce in wider markets.