New Delhi, September 11, 2025

In a game-changing initiative to empower fruit growers in the Kashmir Valley, Indian Railways has launched the Joint Parcel Product Rapid Cargo Train Service (JPP-RCS), a dedicated transportation solution designed to connect Kashmir’s apple orchards with markets across India. This innovative service, set to commence on September 13, 2025, aims to ensure that fresh, high-quality Kashmir apples reach consumers swiftly and in pristine condition, bolstering the region’s horticulture industry.

A Lifeline for Kashmir’s Apple Growers

Kashmir, renowned for its world-class apples, has long faced logistical challenges in transporting perishable produce to distant markets. The JPP-RCS train service addresses this issue head-on by providing a reliable, time-sensitive transportation network. Operating daily on the Budgam-Adarsh Nagar-Budgam (BDGM-ANDI-BDGM) and Adarsh Nagar-Budgam-Adarsh Nagar (ANDI-BDGM-ANDI) routes, the service will ferry apples and other perishables from the heart of Kashmir to Delhi, one of India’s largest consumer markets.

The train, comprising 8 Vehicle Parcel (VP) vans and 1 Seating-cum-Luggage Rack (SLR) coach, will depart from Budgam at 06:15 hrs on September 15, 2025, and arrive at Adarsh Nagar, Delhi, at 05:30 hrs the following day, perfectly timed for early morning market distribution. Similarly, the return journey will commence from Adarsh Nagar at 12:10 hrs on September 13, 2025, ensuring seamless connectivity. An intermediate loading and unloading facility at Bari Brahman (BBMN) in Jammu & Kashmir further enhances the service’s efficiency, catering to regional demands.

Timings and Stoppages for Seamless Connectivity

The JPP-RCS train service is designed for speed and precision, with strategically planned stoppages to optimize transit time while accommodating key logistical needs. The schedule is as follows:

Station	Arrival	Departure	Station	Arrival	Departure
Adarsh Nagar (Delhi)	05:30	–	Adarsh Nagar (Delhi)	–	12:10
Ambala Cantt.	01:50	01:55	Ambala Cantt.	16:00	16:05
Bari Brahman	15:00	16:30	Bari Brahman	01:00	03:00
Budgam	–	06:15	Budgam	10:45	–

This schedule ensures that apples reach Delhi’s bustling markets early in the morning, maximizing freshness and market value, while the return journey facilitates the transport of goods back to Kashmir.

A Collaborative Effort for Success

The launch of the JPP-RCS service reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to supporting Kashmir’s agricultural economy. The railway authorities, including the Principal Chief Commercial Manager of Northern Railway and the Divisional Railway Manager of Jammu, have been working closely with state authorities, the horticulture department, and Fruit Growers Associations to ensure the initiative meets the needs of farmers and traders. This collaborative approach guarantees smooth operations and addresses any logistical challenges that may arise.

To make the service accessible, Indian Railways has introduced an online registration system for JPP-RCS Aggregators via the portal www.fois.indianrail.gov.in. For additional support, growers and traders can contact the Commercial Department at Baroda House, Northern Railway, New Delhi.

Scalable Solutions for Growing Demand

Recognizing the potential for increased demand, Indian Railways has assured its readiness to scale up operations. Additional parcel vans can be deployed, and train sizes can be expanded to accommodate larger volumes of produce. This flexibility ensures that the JPP-RCS service can adapt to the needs of Kashmir’s fruit industry, providing a robust platform for growth.

Building on a Legacy of Connectivity

The JPP-RCS service is part of Indian Railways’ broader efforts to strengthen freight connectivity in Kashmir. On August 9, 2025, the first freight train carrying cement from Punjab to Anantnag marked a milestone in the region’s logistical infrastructure. The introduction of the JPP-RCS service builds on this momentum, offering a tailored solution for the perishable goods sector and reinforcing Indian Railways’ role as a catalyst for economic development in Jammu & Kashmir.

A Bright Future for Kashmir’s Apple Industry

The JPP-RCS train service is poised to transform the fortunes of Kashmir’s apple growers by providing a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective transportation network. By connecting farmers directly to major markets, the initiative not only enhances the profitability of the apple trade but also ensures that consumers across India can enjoy the unparalleled quality of Kashmir apples. As Indian Railways continues to innovate and collaborate, this service marks a significant step toward a more connected and prosperous Kashmir.

For more information or to register for the JPP-RCS service, visit www.fois.indianrail.gov.in