Value Addition and Global Market Linkages Take Centre Stage at Apricot Workshop in Leh.

Value Addition and Global Market Linkages Take Centre Stage at Apricot Workshop in Leh.
Leh, April 16, 2026: The Department of Horticulture, Union Territory of Ladakh, successfully organized a two-day National Workshop on “Enhancing Apricot Cultivation and Value Chain Development in Ladakh” at the Grand Dragon Hotel, Leh.
Centered around the theme “Building Foundations from Soil to Harvest and Addressing Farmer and Institutional Challenges,” the workshop brought together policymakers, technical experts, entrepreneurs, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and farmers to deliberate on strengthening Ladakh’s apricot value chain—from production to processing and market access.
The event also featured vibrant stalls showcasing artisanal and organic products, including handloom and handicrafts, alongside value-added apricot products from Ladakh’s high-altitude regions.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Shri Bhupesh Chaudhary, Secretary, Horticulture, who highlighted the immense livelihood potential of apricot cultivation in Ladakh owing to its unique agro-climatic conditions. He emphasized that the workshop serves as a strategic platform for convergence across the value chain—bringing together farmers, institutions, entrepreneurs, and market players to address gaps and develop actionable roadmaps. He underscored the need to integrate technology with grassroots participation to transform the sector into a sustainable and profitable enterprise.
The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. In his address, he described the iconic apricot blossoms as a symbol of Ladakh’s rich natural heritage and highlighted the exceptional quality of its apricots, nurtured by high-altitude conditions and glacial waters. Referring to unique varieties such as Raktsey Karpo and Halman, he emphasized the need for strong global branding and robust market linkages. He noted that while Ladakh’s apricots hold significant export potential, scaling up processing infrastructure and strengthening supply chains remain critical. He also highlighted ongoing initiatives, including international collaborations and efforts to promote Ladakhi products through e-commerce platforms, aimed at enhancing farmer incomes and reducing post-harvest losses.
A key highlight of the workshop was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the UT Administration of Ladakh and Lulu International. The MoU envisages the supply of 1,000 metric tonnes of fresh apricots from Ladakh, along with efforts to strengthen export linkages and develop advanced processing infrastructure in the region. Publications related to apricot cultivation were also released on the occasion.
Shri Abhishek Dev, IAS, Chairman, APEDA, emphasized the transformative potential of apricot cultivation for farmers’ livelihoods in Ladakh. He also highlighted opportunities in other crops such as seabuckthorn, apple, and buckwheat, particularly within the organic segment. Stressing the importance of organic certification, branding, and market development, he encouraged stakeholders to leverage Ladakh’s organic advantage to access global markets.
Shri A.P. Das Joshi, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), described the MoU as a landmark initiative and stressed the need to shift from raw produce to value-added products. Highlighting schemes such as PMFME, he noted that Ladakh has significant scope to expand its food processing ecosystem. He reiterated the Ministry’s objective of achieving 40 percent value addition in the sector over the next five years and urged stakeholders to utilize available financial and technical support.
Shri Salim M.A., Group Director, Lulu International, noted the growing demand for Ladakhi apricots in international markets and expressed interest in strengthening long-term partnerships. He also invited stakeholders to participate in global exhibitions, including those in Dubai, to promote Ladakhi products.
The workshop featured technical sessions by leading experts. Dr. Om Chand (CITH) spoke on varietal improvement and high-density plantation systems; Dr. Faizan Ahmad (SAST Kargil) discussed scientific orchard management and productivity enhancement; Dr. Amit Nath (ICAR-CIPHET) focused on post-harvest management and modern drying techniques; and Dr. V.K. Arora (NIFTEM) elaborated on value addition through advanced processing technologies. Smt. Bushra Faridi (APEDA) addressed organic certification and branding under the NPOP framework, while representatives from the Himmothan Society highlighted the role of FPOs in aggregation, processing, and market linkage.
The sessions were highly interactive, with farmers actively engaging with experts to address practical challenges and explore innovative solutions. The workshop concluded with an open discussion, reinforcing collaboration among stakeholders and a shared commitment to advancing Ladakh’s apricot sector.
The event was attended by senior officials including Ms. Shashanka Ala, Secretary to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor; Ms. Bhanu Prabha, Secretary, Cooperative Department; Shri Rahul Sharma, Secretary, Food and Supplies; Prof. Saket Kushwaha, Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh; along with policymakers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and farmers from across the region.