Chairman/CEC of LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, flagged off the first consignment of Karkitchoo apples for export to Dubai on October 26  from Rangyul Organic Producer Company Ltd cold storage unit in Kargil.

This one-metric-ton consignment was coordinated by Rangyul Organic Producer Company Ltd. (ROPCL), a Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) in Kargil, with support from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Lulu Group. 

Councillor Shargole Mohd Javed, Chief Horticulture Officer Haji Mohd Zaffar, Accounts Officer of RDD Sajjad Hussain, CEO of ROPCL Ahmad Ali, along with district officers, farmers, and other dignitaries were present.

In his address, Dr. Akhoon praised ROPCL for its commitment to promoting Kargil’s organic produce on both national and international platforms. He emphasized the role of organic farming in boosting local farmers’ incomes and encouraged them to adopt sustainable, profit-oriented practices. The CEC also stressed the importance of maintaining high product quality to establish "Brand Kargil" in global markets.

Dr. Akhoon assured ROPCL of his support in providing a refrigerated van to strengthen Kargil’s cold chain infrastructure, enhancing market access for its organic products. He noted that several areas in Kargil have been certified organic by SSOCA and expressed optimism about future certifications that would further bolster Kargil’s position in the organic market.

ROPCL CEO Ahmad Ali shared that this initiative marks the company's second export effort, following successful exports of lilies and apricots. He expressed hope that the unique Karkitchoo apples will resonate with international consumers, helping to put Kargil on the map for high-quality organic produce.