JK to import high quality rootstocks from Europe

To improve the quality and increase the quantity of fruits in Jammu and Kashmir, the state government will soon start importing rootstocks of high density plantation from European countries.
"The government will soon import rootstocks from Europe for shifting to high-density plantations to rejuvenate our orchards," Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed said.
Calling upon agriculturists and fruit-growers to brace for stiffer competition emerging from fruit-producing markets abroad, the CM said easing of regulatory mechanism at the global level has brought in fierce competition, which can only be survived by proper grading and maintenance of the produce. The CM while addressing a gathering, after laying foundation of the additional block of Kissan Ghar at Narwal here today, stressed on diversification of agriculture towards high-yielding crops and said new technologies and best practices have to be adopted to enhance economic returns. For this, he suggested setting up of more cold stores to maintain the quality of fruits produced.

"Even in this onslaught from overseas markets, our fruits taste much better, wherein the hope for survival lies," he said.
J&K Legislative Assembly Speaker Kavinder Gupta, deputy Chief Minister Dr Nirmal Singh, Minister for Horticulture A R Veeri, Vice Chairman J&K Kissan Board Daljeet Singh among other officials were present on the occasion.