UP Inc demands single window system for agri exports

Uttar Pradesh Inc has demanded a single window system for enhancing agri exports from the state.

Although UP is primarily an agrarian economy, the state has been laggard in the export of agricultural produce due to apathetic attitude of the government and absence of incentives.

To overcome procedural bottlenecks and delays, industry has demanded constitution of single window system in UP for agri exports with members representing Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), Mandi Parishad and Airports Authority of India (AAI).

Besides, industry has urged APEDA and DGFT to open their offices in Lucknow for faster processing of applications and redressal of grievances.

“We have asked UP government to appoint an Agri Exports Commissioner to promote agri exports and coordinate all such activities,” PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) resident director Brigadier Amitabha told Business Standard.

The Chamber has sent its set of recommendations and demands to APEDA, UP Agricultural Production Commissioner (APC) and Infrastructure and Industrial Development Commissioner (IIDC) for further action.

The industry body had recently organised a seminar on ‘Roadmap for Enhancing Agri Exports from UP’, which was attended by APEDA chairman Asit Tripathy among others. Subsequently, deliberations were held with exporters and sector experts to finalise recommendations.

In UP, National Horticulture Mission (NHM) has been launched in 26 districts and horticulture contributes over 18 per cent to agriculture income. Studies show that one hectare of land under horticulture creates 863 man days of employment, while it is only 160 man days in cereals.

Besides, industry has made the pitch for cold storage facility at Lucknow Airport large enough for fruits, flowers and other agri export consignments.