| News Details |
| Value Addition and Global Market Linkages Take Centre Stage at Apricot Workshop in Leh | |
Leh, April 16 (Scoop News)- The Department of Horticulture, Union Territory of Ladakh, successfully organized a two-day National Workshop on “Enhancing Apricot Cultivation and Value Chain Development in Ladakh” at the Grand Dragon Hotel, Leh.
Centered around the theme “Building Foundations from Soil to Harvest and Addressing Farmer and Institutional Challenges,” the workshop brought together policymakers, technical experts, entrepreneurs, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and farmers to deliberate on strengthening Ladakh’s apricot value chain—from production to processing and market access.
The event also featured vibrant stalls showcasing artisanal and organic products, including handloom and handicrafts, alongside value-added apricot products from Ladakh’s high-altitude regions.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Shri Bhupesh Chaudhary, Secretary, Horticulture, who highlighted the immense livelihood potential of apricot cultivation in Ladakh owing to its unique agro-climatic conditions. He emphasized that the workshop serves as a strategic platform for convergence across the value chain—bringing together farmers, institutions, entrepreneurs, and market players to address gaps and develop actionable roadmaps. He underscored the need to integrate technology with grassroots participation to transform the sector into a sustainable and profitable enterprise.
The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. In his address, he described the iconic apricot blossoms as a symbol of Ladakh’s rich natural heritage and highlighted the exceptional quality of its apricots, nurtured by high-altitude conditions and glacial waters. Referring to unique varieties such as Raktsey Karpo and Halman, he emphasized the need for strong global branding and robust market linkages. He noted that while Ladakh’s apricots hold significant export potential, scaling up processing infrastructure and strengthening supply chains remain critical. He also highlighted ongoing initiatives, including international collaborations and efforts to promote Ladakhi products through e-commerce platforms, aimed at enhancing farmer incomes and reducing post-harvest losses.
A key highlight of the workshop was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the UT Administration of Ladakh and Lulu International. The MoU envisages the supply of 1,000 metric tonnes of fresh apricots from Ladakh, along with efforts to strengthen export linkages and develop advanced processing infrastructure in the region. Publications related to apricot cultivation were also released on the occasion.
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