Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday met with representatives of Jammu and Kashmir Fruit and Vegetable Processing and Integrated Cold Chen Association (JKPICA) in Srinagar.
The meeting focused on strategies to maintain industrial growth in cold chains and agricultural-processing sectors, which is important to strengthen J-K’s agricultural economy and promote exports.
“Today, I met representatives of Jammu and Kashmir fruits and botanical processing and integrated Cold Chen Association (JKPICA) in Srinagar. During this time, strategies were discussed to maintain industrial development in cold chains and agro-processing areas, which are extremely important to strengthen J&C economy and promote exports.”
Earlier today, Goyal addressed FTII: Traders Conclave – 2025 in Srinagar and promised to work for a reduction in goods and service tax levied on handicrafts and handloom products to help promote the region.
“The issue of GST on handicrafts and handlooms was brought to my attention by two or three system representatives. I have suggested that they also submit an application about the matter with the Finance Ministry along with the Ministry of Finance -Along with me also submit an application to me so that we can find out what we can provide relief.
The Union Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir will soon get the center of excellence for packaging and design.
He said, “I have instructed the authorities to start a project focused on quality packaging and design to find out the possibilities in collaboration with the Indian Packaging Institute of Packaging. They have been requested to identify a suitable place, where the initiative can be started as soon as possible,” he said.
In addition, the Union Minister said that the delegates have focused on encouraging storage technology, cold chain infrastructure, and startups and new talent.
Goyal also assured that he would discuss with NTPC and Solar Energy Corporation to help producers to export their products as a green product to get a higher price to their products to establish a solar lighting or power generation facility in the area.
He also held a detailed discussion with MSME Development Forum, Jammu and Kashmir about various suggestions to promote local enterprises. (AI)