The Nowpora Sopore Fruit and Vegetable Market, commonly known as the Sopore Fruit Mandi, stands as a cornerstone of Jammu and Kashmir’s horticultural economy. Established in 1988 by visionary entrepreneur Ghulam Mustafa, this market has evolved into Asia’s second-largest fruit market after Delhi’s Azadpur Mandi . Spanning approximately 400 kanals (about 50 acres), the market is strategically located in Nowpora Kalan, just 2 kilometers from Sopore town .

Functioning as a pivotal distribution hub, the Sopore Mandi handles around 40% of the Kashmir Valley’s apple production . In the 2024 harvest season alone, it dispatched over 900,000 metric tons of apples, generating revenue exceeding ₹6,000 crore . Daily operations see the loading of approximately 300 to 400 trucks, facilitating the distribution of fresh produce across India and neighboring countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.

The market’s infrastructure reflects its commitment to modernization and efficiency. It boasts a well-maintained office complex, a conference hall, and a guesthouse managed by the Fruit Growers Association, providing accommodations and meals for visiting traders . The emphasis on cleanliness and organization has made it a model for agricultural markets in the region.

Economically, the Sopore Mandi is a linchpin for the local community, with approximately 70% of the region’s population engaged in horticulture-related activities . Its role extends beyond commerce; it fosters community development and sustains livelihoods, underscoring its significance in the socio-economic fabric of Jammu and Kashmir.