Move aimed to double income of growers
Reasi, May 31:
The department of Horticulture planning & Marketing Reasi, under the supervision of Station Superintendent Railway Katra, today facilitated the transportation of the Kashmir Cherry from Katra to Mumbai in Swaraj express.
Marketing Inspector Horticulture Planning & Marketing Vijay Atri informed that it was an advance consignment of 23 MT of the Italy cherry variety booked by President New Kashmir Fruit Association Bashir Ahmed Basheer. He said that Kashmir produces 95% India’s cherry, which is known for its taste and flavor.
“Being most perishable fruit is now being transported to Mumbai in just 32 hours, compared to the earlier 6- 7 days. Cherry lovers and consumers can now access the fresh Kashmir cherry at their doorsteps. The initiative will also benefit the farmers with low freight charges and better returns by delivering fresh turgid, crunchy produce” he informed. He further said “Earlier a Cherry box was sold at Rs 300- 400 in the Mumbai retail market, now it will sell at around Rs 600-700.”
Station Superintendent Katra Jugal Kishore; AGMO Ravi Shankar with trader Ali Mohammad and progressive farmer Altaf Sahil were also present during the departure of Swaraj Express KATRA -MUMBAI.(GNS)