In a major boost to the agricultural marketing infrastructure of Ramban district, the Fruit and Vegetable Mandi at Batote  became fully functional. The facility, developed by the Department of Horticulture Planning and Marketing, J&K, will now serve as a vibrant hub for trading fruits, vegetables, processed food items and other agri-produce.

The operationalization of the mandi is a direct outcome of proactive intervention by Deputy Commissioner Ramban, Mohammad Alyas Khan, who had issued clear directives to concerned departments after his first visit to the site. His action was closely supported by Director Horticulture Planning and Marketing, Ghulam Geelani Zarger with continuous coordination from Deputy Director Ayaz Ahmed Natnoo with all stakeholders.

Equipped with modern infrastructure including auction platforms, toilet blocks, safe drinking water, proper lighting, designated loading/unloading zones and parking areas, the mandi ensures transparent, efficient, and hygienic trading practices. It aims to eliminate intermediaries, facilitate fair pricing, and provide direct market access to farmers, entrepreneurs and SHGs.

The mandi is envisioned as a regional trade hub to aggregate produce for dispatch to urban markets, retail chains and institutional buyers. It also offers a platform for processed food producers and agri-entrepreneurs to formalize and scale their operations.

Field-level execution was effectively handled by Area Marketing Officer Ramban, Tehsin Iqbal Chib and Assistant Grading & Marketing Officer Ramban, Raju Zutshi in collaboration with Tehsildar Batote, ensuring timely functionality of the facility.

Local growers and traders have warmly welcomed the initiative, expressing gratitude to the district administration and Horticulture Department for fulfilling a long-pending demand. The mandi is expected to generate employment, promote crop diversification and contribute significantly to Ramban’s rural economy, aligning with the UT Government’s vision for agri-led development.