Srinagar, Oct 23 (KNS): Export opportunities for Kashmir's agricultural and horticultural products, along with challenges related to branding, quality standards and market access, came under discussion at an agri-startup programme organised by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) on Friday.

More than 360 stakeholders registered for the Agri-Startup Stakeholders Connect 2026, which brought together entrepreneurs, researchers and industry representatives from Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi and Haryana.

The programme, organised in collaboration with the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad, focused on connecting emerging agricultural businesses with research institutions, industry and potential markets.

Dr Azra Mufti, Business Development Manager at the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), highlighted export prospects for Jammu and Kashmir's agricultural and horticultural produce.

She stressed the importance of branding, value addition, compliance with quality standards and improved market access to help local products reach wider markets.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

SKUAST-K Vice-Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai said agricultural research and innovation needed stronger connections with entrepreneurship and markets to translate scientific developments into commercial opportunities.

Dr Saravanan Raj, Director, MANAGE, Hyderabad, who joined the programme online, discussed institutional support, capacity building and collaboration to strengthen agricultural entrepreneurship.

Abdul Rouf Khan, Incubation Manager at SKUAST-K, stressed the need for closer coordination among farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations, startups, research institutions and industry.

Entrepreneurs also shared their experiences of developing agriculture-based businesses.

Abdul Manan Koul, founder of Poshte Foods, discussed value addition and market-oriented food businesses, while Khalida Rasool, founder of K.R. Mushroom, highlighted commercial opportunities in exotic mushroom cultivation, medicinal plants and processed agricultural products.

The programme was held at SKUAST-K's Shalimar campus and attended by senior university officials, scientists, entrepreneurs and industry representatives. (KNS)