Sat Sharma flags Cold Storage shortage in Rajya Sabha, seeks urgent infra boost for J&K farmers

New Delhi : President J&K BJP and Member Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Sat Paul Sharma, on Friday sought reply on an important public-interest issue in the Rajya Sabha regarding the lack of cold storage and transport facilities in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly affecting perishable agricultural produce such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, saffron, apples, and walnuts.
In response to the unstarred question The Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ramnath Thakur, provided a comprehensive overview of the Government of India’s initiatives to enhance post-harvest management and logistical infrastructure in Jammu & Kashmir. The government is actively implementing various schemes to develop cold chain infrastructure and transportation facilities, crucial for the region’s horticulture sector. Under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), financial support is being allocated for the establishment of cold storage units, controlled atmosphere storage, pack houses, refrigerated vans, and ripening chambers. This assistance is tailored to the region’s needs, based on proposals approved by the State Level Executive Committee. Additionally, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY) is facilitating the creation of integrated cold chains and value addition infrastructure, including reefer transport facilities. The Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) is also providing medium- to long-term debt financing for post-harvest management infrastructure, while Operation Greens aims to stabilize supply and minimize post-harvest losses of perishable crops through value chain development and improved storage and transportation infrastructure. The Minister noted that the development of these facilities is an ongoing process, contingent on viable project proposals and necessary approvals, with implementation typically occurring within 12 to 24 months. Inter-ministerial coordination is emphasized, particularly regarding logistical infrastructure managed by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways and the Ministry of Railways. A coordinated approach is being adopted to enhance multimodal transportation networks, including the establishment of a Multi Modal Logistics Park in Jammu to facilitate the timely transport of agricultural products like apples, saffron, and walnuts. To further reduce post-harvest losses, the government is promoting scientific management practices such as grading, sorting, and packaging, while also encouraging the formation of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) for better market linkage. Market reforms and digital platforms like e-NAM are being implemented to improve price discovery, alongside capacity building and technical guidance for farmers and stakeholders. Sat Sharma emphasized the importance of strengthening cold storage and transportation infrastructure to protect the interests of farmers and horticulturists in Jammu & Kashmir.
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