In a major boost for apple growers of Jammu & Kashmir, Indian Railways today commenced the loading of fresh apples on two dedicated Vehicle Parcel Trains (VPTs), each comprising eight wagons, for swift transportation to the Delhi market. The initiative is aimed at ensuring faster, safer, and more economical transportation of the Valley’s famed apple produce to major consumption centers, reducing dependence on road transport and minimizing transit losses.
By providing a reliable rail-based logistics solution, Indian Railways is directly supporting the farming community, ensuring that Kashmir’s apple growers receive better market access and fair value for their produce. This step is also expected to help stabilize apple prices in Delhi and adjoining regions, benefitting both farmers and consumers.
The Railway Ministry has reiterated its commitment to promoting agricultural freight corridors, underlining the role of rail transport in strengthening India’s farm-to-market supply chain. Today’s apple train marks another milestone in leveraging railways for the prosperity of farmers in line with the Government’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat.”