Why is Himachal Condemning the Centre’s Apple Import Policies?
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Synopsis
The Congress government in Himachal Pradesh has taken a strong stance against the Centre's apple import policies, labeling them as detrimental to local farmers. This situation raises crucial questions about the future of apple growers in the region and highlights a perceived betrayal by the central government.
Key Takeaways
- Recent duty reduction on imported apples has alarmed local growers.
- The Himachal Pradesh government is voicing strong opposition to these policies.
- The Market Intervention Scheme has been halted, affecting financial support for farmers.
- State officials stress the importance of protecting local agriculture.
- The local government is committed to assisting apple growers despite financial constraints.
Shimla, Dec 25 (NationPress) The Congress-led government in Himachal Pradesh has strongly criticized the Union government's policies regarding apple imports, asserting that a series of decisions illustrate a distinctly anti-farmer and anti-horticulture attitude that is thrusting the state's apple producers into economic turmoil.
In response to the duty reduction on apples from New Zealand from 50% to 25% under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Rohit Thakur, the state's Education Minister, stated that this action represents a blatant betrayal of all apple growers, particularly in Himachal.
He emphasized that apple farming is crucial to the state's mountainous economy and that any policy undermining local producers is a direct assault on the livelihoods of countless families relying on horticulture.
Thakur noted that the Centre had consistently promised protection to apple growers, yet these pledges have gone unfulfilled.
He highlighted that the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS), which supported culled apples and other agricultural produce and was initiated by the previous Congress government, was terminated by the Modi administration starting in 2023 by eliminating the Centre's financial contribution.
Furthermore, he pointed out that the budgetary allocation for MIS in the Union budget plummeted from approximately Rs 4,000 crore in 2022-23 to a mere Rs one lakh in 2023-24, rendering effective implementation of the scheme impossible.
This decision has deprived growers of an essential safety net, particularly for cull fruits, underscoring the Centre's anti-horticulture policy.
Despite facing significant financial hardships, natural disasters, and a challenging economic environment inherited from previous administrations, the state government remains steadfast in its support for apple growers. The minister mentioned that, even without any Central assistance, the state has allocated nearly Rs 160 crore from its limited resources over the past three years to procure culled apples under the MIS.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of supporting local farmers, especially in regions like Himachal Pradesh where agriculture is a vital part of the economy. The criticisms of the Centre's policies reflect the deep concerns of apple growers, and it is essential to ensure that their voices are heard in the national discourse.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recent apple import policy changes?
The Union government reduced the import duty on apples from New Zealand from 50% to 25% under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which has raised concerns among local apple growers.
How has the Himachal government responded?
The Congress-led government in Himachal Pradesh has condemned these policies, stating they reflect an anti-farmer attitude that threatens the livelihoods of apple growers.
What is the significance of the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS)?
The MIS was introduced to support farmers, particularly for culled apples, but it has been discontinued by the current government, impacting growers' financial safety nets.
What financial support has the state government provided?
Despite facing economic challenges, the Himachal government has allocated nearly Rs 160 crore for the procurement of cull apples in the last three years.
Why is apple cultivation important for Himachal Pradesh?
Apple cultivation is a cornerstone of the state's economy, providing livelihoods to numerous families and contributing significantly to the horticultural sector.
