Kashmir’s produce deserves international prominence: JNPA Chairman Mumbai, Oct 06: The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), India’s premier container port, has expressed its willingness to partner with the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to strengthen export linkages for the Union Territory’s world-renowned agricultural produce and handicrafts. The collaboration aims to open new global trade avenues for Kashmir’s famed apples, walnuts, saffron, and handwoven crafts. During an interactive session held at JNPA headquarters in Mumbai, officials highlighted the importance of connecting inland producers from J&K with the port’s advanced logistics ecosystem and international trade corridors. Speaking exclusively to Rising Kashmir, Unmesh Sharad Wagh, Chairman of JNPA and Vadhwan Port, emphasised the immense global market potential for Kashmir’s premium horticultural and handicraft products. “JNPA is fully committed to building a sustainable export bridge for Jammu and Kashmir. With the right logistical support, the Valley’s apples, walnuts, and handicrafts can command a strong presence in global markets,” he stated. Wagh added that JNPA’s robust infrastructure, including multimodal connectivity, state-of-the-art cold storage, and efficient digital tracking systems, can significantly reduce transit time and preserve product quality. “Our goal is to make sure that Kashmir’s apples and handmade crafts reach global consumers fresh, authentic and competitively priced,” he remarked. Dr. G. Vaidyanathan, Chief Manager (PPD) at JNPA, briefed the visiting J&K media delegation on the port’s infrastructure expansion initiatives. He highlighted the development of a ₹285-crore Integrated Agro-Processing and Cold Storage Facility, currently underway on a 27-acre site within the port complex. The facility, the first of its kind in India, will have the capacity to handle 1.2 million tonnes of agricultural produce annually. It will offer 5,800 metric tonnes of cold storage, 1,800 metric tonnes of frozen storage and 12,000 metric tonnes of dry warehousing space. The project aims to reduce post-harvest losses, ensure international quality standards and provide a one-stop centre for packaging, testing, and processing agricultural commodities. Dr Vaidyanathan said the facility will primarily benefit farmers in Maharashtra and Gujarat but will also be open to producers from Jammu and Kashmir. “Our goal is to create a seamless export environment that supports every state in reaching global consumers faster and more efficiently,” he said. JNPA Deputy General Manager (Marketing) Ambika Singh stated that the Authority welcomes collaboration with the J&K administration to identify and address trade requirements. “JNPA’s multimodal connectivity and proximity to key shipping routes make it an ideal gateway for high-value products from Kashmir,” she noted. She further announced that over 100 countries, 500 exhibitors and 200 global speakers are expected to participate in the upcoming India Maritime Week, scheduled from October 27 to 31. The event will serve as a major platform for trade, innovation and international collaboration in the maritime and logistics sectors. Experts accompanying the J&K media delegation observed that a strategic partnership between JNPA and the Jammu and Kashmir Government could be transformative for the region’s export ecosystem. Key benefits would include reduced logistics costs, lower product wastage, enhanced market competitiveness, and increased investment in cold-chain and agro-processing infrastructure. If current discussions bear fruit, JNPA’s advanced agro-logistics hub could soon serve as a critical export gateway for Kashmir’s iconic produce, ensuring the Valley’s fresh apples, premium walnuts, and exquisite artisanal crafts reach global markets with greater speed, quality, and value.