SRINAGAR; 01, Sep 2012: J&K Horticultural Produce Marketing & Processing Corporation Limited (J&K HPMC) has decided to purchase temperate fruits at enhanced rate from Jammu Division and Kashmir valley directly from growers to avoid role of middlemen, distress sales and glut in market. The enhanced rate structure shall be applicable from August 31, 2012. The fruit growers have been asked to reap the benefits of the enhanced rates and go for proper and truthful grading of their fruit.

The rate of apple (culls, pre-fall) has been fixed Rs, 2 per kilogram. The ‘C’ grade apples will be procured at Rs. 4 /kg, while as pears (culls, pre-fall) at Rs.2.50/kg, Pears ( ‘C’ grade) at Rs. 5/kg, Plum, peaches, Quince apple (culls, pre-fall) at Rs.3/kg and Plum, peaches, Quince apple (C Grade) will be procured at Rs.6/kg.

The fruit growers have been asked to bring fruits in peties or gunny bags which will be returnable. An additional amount of Rs. 500/MT shall also be paid as additional freight to the growers of Jammu Division being far-away from the plant.