Kargil: In a breakthrough moment for Ladakh’s horticulture, the first large-scale air shipment of premium fresh apricots from Kargil took off for Mumbai today, flagged off by CEC LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon.
Organized by Halman Apricot, the exclusive consignment—over 10 tons—was handpicked from Kargil’s most celebrated orchards in Batalik, Gargardo, Chulichan, Gongma Kargil, Baroo, and Gongma Minji.
Transported by air, the fruit will reach metropolitan markets at peak freshness, a game-changing move that promises farmers higher earnings and nationwide recognition for Kargil’s produce.
“This is not just a shipment—it’s the start of Kargil’s direct entry into India’s premium fruit market,” Dr. Akhoon said, commending Halman Apricot for cutting transit times and creating a direct farm-to-market supply chain.
Adding to the momentum, UT Ladakh’s Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal has approved a ₹6.45 crore state-of-the-art apricot dryer for Kargil—an investment set to slash wastage, extend shelf life, and open new avenues for apricot-based products year-round.
The flag-off was witnessed by Executive Councillor Zakir Hussain, Councillor Ghulam Haider, and Chief Horticulture Officer Ali Raza, all of whom hailed the initiative as a historic leap for Ladakh’s farmers and its agricultural economy.
This landmark step not only connects Kargil’s orchards to India’s largest cities but also positions Ladakh as a rising player in the country’s premium fresh fruit segment.
