The J&K Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO), under the Industries and Commerce Department of the Govt of J&K, is showcasing the Union Territory’s agro and food processing potential at the 40th edition of AAHAR 2026, Asia’s largest food and hospitality exhibition, currently underway at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.The five-day event, being held from March 10 to 14 under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) programme, is organised by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) in association with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries.
AAHAR 2026 brings together leading food and beverage companies, hospitality industry stakeholders, exporters, buyers, policymakers and trade professionals from across the world. The exhibition serves as a major platform for businesses to connect with global markets and explore new trade opportunities.
According to officials, the exhibition is expected to feature more than 1,800 exhibitors and around 155 international participants from 17 countries, along with thousands of verified global buyers and several international trade delegations.
The mega event was inaugurated by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, reflecting the Government of India’s focus on strengthening the country’s food processing ecosystem, boosting exports and enhancing global market access for Indian food products.
At the exhibition, the Jammu and Kashmir Pavilion has been set up at Hall No. 1, First Floor (IF-23), providing a platform for MSMEs, farmer producer organisations (FPOs) and women entrepreneurs from the Union Territory to showcase their premium products.
The pavilion highlights several of Jammu and Kashmir’s renowned Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products, including saffron, garlic, rajmah, basmati rice and Sulai (Acacia) honey. In addition, exhibitors are presenting a range of value-added products such as organic honey, essential oils, herbs, ground spices, pulses, millets, dry fruits and dehydrated fruits and vegetables.
Officials said the participation aims to enhance the visibility of Jammu and Kashmir’s agri-based value chains and promote the region’s high-quality food products in both national and international markets.
The pavilion is also expected to facilitate business-to-business (B2B) interactions between entrepreneurs from J&K and buyers, exporters and distributors from across the globe.
Speaking on the occasion, the Managing Director of JKTPO said the organisation’s participation in AAHAR 2026 reflects its continued commitment to promoting MSMEs, food processors and agri-entrepreneurs from the Union Territory by connecting them with major trade platforms.
He said such initiatives play a crucial role in expanding market access, enhancing product visibility and increasing the export potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s unique agricultural and food products.
Officials said the participation at AAHAR 2026 is expected to generate valuable business leads and potential trade partnerships for entrepreneurs from Jammu and Kashmir, further strengthening the region’s presence in the evolving global food market.
They added that the initiative also highlights J&K’s growing potential as a hub for premium agri, horticulture and value-added food products.
Visitors, buyers and trade delegates have been invited to visit the Jammu and Kashmir Pavilion at Hall No. 1, First Floor (IF-23) to explore the region’s diverse agro and food products and experience the richness of its agriculture and horticulture sector.
