Srinagar, Oct 18: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar on Saturday said the government will soon introduce a law to prohibit the use of artificial colouring on fruits, saying the practice is damaging Kashmir’s fruit industry, consumer health and market credibility.
Speaking to reporters in Baramulla, Dar said that artificial colouring has become a serious concern. “Colouring is affecting our fruit business across markets. Buyers in Delhi, Jammu and Kolkata have complained about it. We will be soon drafting a law to stop its use completely,” he said.
Minister said the government is also finalizing the creation of a dedicated Enforcement Wing to regulate fertilizers and pesticides. “Many fertilizers and pesticides in use are of poor quality. We are strengthening enforcement to identify and act against violators,” he said.
He warned that penalties will be imposed on traders and growers who bring coloured fruit to markets ahead of the season. “If a September apple arrives in August and shows colouring, it is malpractice. This must stop,” he said.
On pest control, Minister Dar said the illegal import of rootstocks without quarantine checks has worsened the “leaf miner” pest problem. “Some people bring rootstocks through black marketing. We have identified them and strict action will follow,” he said.
The Minister said the government will ensure safety standards in trade. “We are a progressive state. We will not ban licenses arbitrarily, but misuse will not be allowed,” he said.
He also said a plan is being prepared to decongest and expand the Sopore Fruit Mandi. “Departments of Housing, R&B, Planning and Power will jointly develop a comprehensive plan to improve transport flow and expand market space,” he said.
Minister confirmed that the Doabgah government juice plant remains functional and has been outsourced to a private operator. “It continues to operate smoothly under private management,” he said. (KNO)
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