Leh: The Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal IAS, chaired a meeting at the Civil Secretariat in Leh to review the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the procurement of Apricot Dryer Machines.
During the meeting, Bhupesh Chaudhary IAS, Administrative Secretary of the Horticulture Department, Ladakh, gave a comprehensive presentation on the DPR. He outlined the critical need for apricot dryer machines in Ladakh, emphasizing their role in enhancing the value chain of apricot production, reducing post-harvest losses, and promoting entrepreneurship in the region. His presentation covered key aspects including project components, land requirements, infrastructure provisions such as electricity, road connectivity, and water supply, as well as the financial outlay and economic viability of the project.
It was informed that the apricot dryer machines will be procured and installed at Khaltse in Leh district and Kargil district under PM’s Special Development Package (SDP). The estimated cost for each unit would be around ₹8.79 crore.
Dr. Kotwal emphasized the importance of community participation and directed the formation of a Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) or Cooperative society comprising local apricot growers. He instructed that the growers be actively consulted to align the project with grassroots needs.
He also directed the Horticulture Department, in collaboration with the Defence Institute of High-Altitude Research (DIHAR), Leh, to develop a revised DPR adopting a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model or Government Owned Contactor Operated (GOCO) model on the lines of Nimoo processing plant. He set a 15-day deadline for finalizing the revised design and called for expediting the procurement process for two drying units.
The Chief Secretary also directed the Industries Department to continue pursuing the procurement through the CDP of MSME, ensuring that all necessary formalities are completed at the earliest. He stressed the importance of involving entrepreneurial stakeholders to leverage their expertise in the sector.
Dr. Kotwal noted that the establishment of apricot drying units will significantly benefit local producers, as Ladakh is one of the largest apricot-producing regions in the country.
The meeting was attended by the Secretary, Horticulture Department; scientists from DIHAR, Leh; representatives from entrepreneurial groups; and officials from the Industries and Horticulture Departments. Director, Industries, Ladakh; Director, Horticulture, Ladakh; Joint Director, MSME; and Joint Director MSME, Jammu, joined the meeting virtually.
