Himachal Pradesh growers urge ban on Turkiye apple imports

Shimla: A delegation of apple growers, under the banner of the Himalayan Apple Growers Society, met Union minister of commerce and industry Piyush Goyal on Friday and sought a complete ban on apple imports from Turkiye.The delegation expressed deep concern over the rapidly increasing imports and urged for an immediate ban, citing significant losses to domestic farmers due to cheap and subsidised imports.The delegation members highlighted that Turkiye supports Pakistan with military aid, which was concerning from a national security perspective.The BJP leader and apple grower Chetan Singh Bragta, who was part of the delegation, stated that stopping apple imports from Turkiye was not just a trade decision but a matter of national pride and protection of growers, sending a strong message to the countries supporting terrorism. "We cannot remain silent on this issue," he said.The delegation presented five key demands, including an immediate ban on Turkish apple imports, raising the minimum import price for apples from other countries, and enforcing strict quality and phytosanitary standards on imported apples.Goyal assured appropriate action on the demands. The issue is tied not only to economics but also to the dignity of farmers, the self-reliance of hill states, and national pride, mentioned the delegation.MSID:: 121215004 413 |