Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi

New Delhi, Jun 16: In a significant milestone for India’s agri-export sector, the first-ever commercial consignment of premium cherries from Jammu and Kashmir is en route to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced on Monday.

Taking to social media platform X, Minister Goyal shared the development, expressing enthusiasm over the export breakthrough for cherry farmers in the Union Territory. “So much to cheer. The first commercial consignment of premium cherries from Jammu and Kashmir heads to Saudi Arabia and the UAE,” Goyal posted.

He further stated that this marks the opening of a vast international market for cherry growers in the region, ensuring better prices and increased income. “A huge market opens up for our cherry farmers, who will now get a better price for their produce,” he added.

Highlighting the Centre’s continued efforts to transform India into a global agri-export powerhouse, Goyal noted, “The PM Modi government has been bridging logistical gaps to position India as a global supplier of premium agri-products.”

Describing the achievement as a big step in the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, the minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to boosting agri-exports by improving infrastructure, cutting red tape, and facilitating international market access for Indian farmers.

The move comes as part of a broader vision to make high-quality produce from regions like Kashmir available to global consumers, while simultaneously strengthening rural livelihoods and showcasing India's diverse agricultural bounty on the world stage.