J&K’s logistics push faces test on ground implementation

Srinagar, Mar 29: The Jammu and Kashmir government said it will grant “industry status” to the logistics sector under a draft policy aimed at reducing high transport costs and curbing post-harvest losses of agricultural and horticultural produce. However, the government did not specify any location-specific plans for establishing dry ports.

The announcement came in response to a starred question raised in the Assembly by Congress legislator Ghulam Ahmad Mir, who sought clarity on whether the absence of a structured dry port policy has adversely affected the export competitiveness of key products such as apples, walnuts, and almonds.

Responding to the query, Industries and Commerce Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary said the draft policy envisages granting “industry status” to the logistics sector, which would make logistics projects eligible for all benefits available under the Industrial Policy once the framework is formally notified.

He added that the policy is in its final stages following public consultations and is designed to address critical gaps in the existing logistics ecosystem. “The government is aware that efficient logistics infrastructure is essential for improving export competitiveness of industrial goods as well as horticultural and agricultural produce of the Union Territory,” the minister said.

On infrastructure development, the government outlined a broad framework instead of committing to a dedicated dry port policy. The draft includes provisions for establishing Inland Container Depots (ICDs), Container Freight Stations (CFSs), lorry terminals, and Multi-Modal Logistics Parks (MMLPs), all equipped with customs clearance facilities.

The policy also lays down specific infrastructure standards and detailed definitions for various logistics facilities, including ICDs, CFSs, and Air Freight Stations, specifying the minimum requirements for their operation.

To address post-harvest losses, the policy emphasises cold-chain integration. It defines cold chain infrastructure to include Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage, blast freezing units, refrigerated transport, and modern warehousing facilities for perishable goods. Customs-linked operations will function under regulatory oversight with provisions for bonded warehousing.

The government further stated that the policy encourages private sector participation in logistics infrastructure development, including green logistics initiatives and improved connectivity, through public-private partnership (PPP) models.

Responding to a specific query regarding South Kashmir, particularly Dooru in Anantnag district, the government clarified that no locations have been identified under the draft policy. “The draft Logistic Policy does not name any specific area like Dooru or Anantnag directly,” the reply said, adding that infrastructure will be developed based on feasibility, demand assessment, and commercial viability through a mix of public investment and private participation.

The policy, once notified, is expected to play a key role in strengthening supply chains, reducing logistics costs, and improving the overall efficiency of trade and exports from Jammu and Kashmir.