Contractor blacklisted
Srinagar, Oct 21: Reacting to the story carried by news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) regarding the Centre’s demand for a refund of Rs 4.16 crore for failing to build a pre‑harvest management project for apple growers, the Jammu & Kashmir Government on Wednesday said that the matter will be formally taken up with the Government of India.
In an official statement, the Jammu & Kashmir Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (JKHPMC) said the issue must be viewed in the context of the proposed revival of the project. “In terms of Clause 18 of the project MoU dated July 15, 2005, the matter will be placed before the Centre for a considered view in light of the revival plan and the commitment to complete the facility using J&K Government resources,” the statement reads.
The project, conceived in 2005 with APEDA assistance, could not be completed despite repeated extensions, largely due to frequent site and design changes and default by the executing contractor.
“Action was taken against the contractor, including blacklisting and initiation of legal proceedings,” it said.
Recognising the importance of the facility for apple growers in Shopian and adjoining areas, JKHPMC has undertaken a fresh technical assessment and prepared a revival plan with modern post‑harvest infrastructure. The plan envisages a grading, packing, and waxing line of 5 metric tonnes per hour capacity, along with a Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage facility of about 2,000 metric tonnes. Existing infrastructure will be utilised wherever feasible.
The project is proposed to be completed with an investment of around ₹20 crore from the UT Government’s CAPEX budget, to be projected in the ensuing financial year. Once operational, the facility will enable scientific storage, improve post‑harvest handling, reduce losses, and allow growers to market produce beyond the peak harvesting season. This is expected to enhance market realisation, strengthen the horticulture sector in Shopian, and generate local employment.
JKHPMC reiterated its commitment to reviving the stalled project, upgrading infrastructure in line with present‑day requirements, and ensuring that the facility delivers its intended benefits to apple growers. (KNO)
