Ehsaan Yousf
Srinagar 6th March 2024: HDFC Parivartan is an initiative by HDFC Bank dedicated to driving positive change and promoting sustainable development across various sectors. With a focus on community empowerment, the program aims to create lasting impact and contribute to the betterment of society.
HDFC Parivartan and ISAP India Foundation, a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to the upliftment of the agricultural sector, joined forces to empower Kashmir’s socioeconomic development through a successful Buyer-Seller Meet held on March 6, 2024, at Srinagar’s Hotel Golden Leaf.
The event marked a significant step forward in bolstering the region’s economy. The Buyer-Seller Meet, a collaborative effort between HDFC Parivartan and ISAP India Foundation, aimed to create synergies between prominent buyers and project farmers growing various crops including fresh fruits, dry fruits, lavender, and rearing fish among others. The event provided a dynamic platform for fostering new business linkages, thus empowering the local farming community in Kashmir.
The event witnessed insightful discussions from prominent industry leaders, including Mr. Ehsan, CEO of Orchardly, who emphasized the procurement of apples and pledged to provide services to FPC farmers. Mr. Ehsan also promised the establishment of three Orchardly stores in Budgam, Baramulla, and Ganderbal, enhancing accessibility for local farmers. Dr. Masrat, MD of Iqbal Biotech, shed light on the establishment and development of horticulture and agriculture-based nurseries, highlighting the importance of nurturing these sectors for sustainable growth. Mr. Zahid Beigh, CEO of ZF Group, engaged in discussions regarding the lavender business with FPCs, indicating potential collaborations to further develop this sector in Kashmir. Mr. Uzair, CEO of Abis India Technologies, delved into the fisheries business, discussing prospects and the establishment of different fish units, showcasing the diverse opportunities available for economic development in the region. Additionally, Ab Qayoom, Marketing Head of Neoshirine Pvt Ltd, provided valuable insights into dry fruit trade, focusing on packaging, quality, and quantity, and expressed intentions to engage in trade with FPCs in Kupwara, Ganderbal, and other areas.
“We are delighted to witness the positive outcomes of the Buyer-Seller Meet, which brought together key stakeholders to explore mutually beneficial business opportunities,” said Dr Tahir Nazir, State Head ISAP India Foundation at HDFC Parivartan. “Through our partnership with ISAP India Foundation, we remain committed to driving sustainable economic growth and creating lasting impact in Kashmir.”
The Buyer-Seller Meet served as a catalyst for economic empowerment by facilitating direct interactions between buyers and farmers. By forging new business connections, the event has opened doors to enhanced market access translating into increased incomes for the local farming community.
“We are thrilled with the success of the Buyer-Seller Meet, which reflects our collective commitment to fostering socio-economic development in Kashmir,” said Dr Umer Bin Farook, Project Head HDFC Kisan Parivartan Project at ISAP India Foundation. The event has paved the way for meaningful collaborations and has the potential to transform the lives of farmers in the region.
The partnership between HDFC Parivartan and ISAP India Foundation highlights their joint commitment to fostering positive change and advancing sustainable development in Kashmir. The successful outcome of the Buyer-Seller Meet signifies a major achievement in their collective efforts to empower local communities and pave the way for a prosperous future in the region.
