Why is Union Minister Advocating for a Boycott of Turkish Apples?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Giriraj Singh urges a boycott of Turkish apples due to Turkey's support for Pakistan. This call comes amid rising concerns for local apple growers in Himachal Pradesh, where the apple industry plays a crucial economic role. Discover the implications of this boycott and its potential impact on international trade relations.
Key Takeaways
- Giriraj Singh calls for the boycott of Turkish apples.
- Turkey's support for Pakistan raises tensions.
- Himachal Pradesh's apple industry is crucial to the state's economy.
- Chief Minister Sukhu advocates for increased import duties.
- Importance of local crafts like pottery highlighted.
New Delhi, May 25 (NationPress) Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh has passionately called upon Indian consumers to boycott Turkish apples, referencing Turkey's support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor.
“Turkey backs adversarial nations, so if citizens opt against consuming Turkish apples and favor Himachal apples, it’s a commendable choice,” the minister stated while addressing the media during his visit to Himachal Pradesh.
Singh inaugurated the Bob Organics organic fertiliser production facility at Byada in Panchrukhi, close to Palampur, on Saturday. He also engaged with students from the Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), gaining valuable insights into the operations and innovations behind the facility.
Later, the minister toured a traditional pottery-making institute in Andretta, where he attempted to mold clay pots. He encouraged locals to take pride in this age-old craft and expand it as a sustainable source of income.
“This falls under the Ministry of Textiles. Pottery is a historic craft that possesses both cultural and economic significance,” he emphasized.
Earlier on Wednesday, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to enhance the import duty on apples from the existing 50 percent to deter imports from Turkey and protect the interests of the state's fruit growers.
The CM also suggested imposing quantitative restrictions on imported apples.
In a letter to the Prime Minister, CM Sukhu highlighted that Himachal Pradesh is recognized as the ‘apple bowl’ of the nation, renowned for its delectable varieties of the fruit. Apples serve as the primary cash crop in the state, generating an annual income of approximately Rs 4,500 crore.
CM Sukhu remarked that apples are currently imported from around 31 countries, with 5.19 lakh metric tons imported in 2024—an astounding increase of 500 times from the 1,100 metric tons imported in 1998. He noted that Turkish apples have been inundating Indian markets in recent years, posing a significant threat to domestic apple growers.
When questioned about the Congress party's opposition to India’s foreign outreach, Giriraj Singh mentioned that an all-party delegation is visiting 33 countries to counter false narratives propagated by Pakistan.
“This isn’t unprecedented. In 1994, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, along with Manmohan Singh and Salman Khurshid, went to the UN to combat similar misinformation. If Congress fails to grasp this and feels discontent, what can I say?” he concluded.
Point of View
It’s crucial to recognize the complexities of the situation. While Giriraj Singh's call for a boycott highlights local concerns, it also raises questions about international relations and trade dynamics. The government must balance protecting domestic interests with maintaining diplomatic ties.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the boycott of Turkish apples being advocated?
The boycott is being urged due to Turkey's support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, which has raised concerns among Indian officials and consumers.
How does this boycott affect local apple growers?
The boycott aims to protect local apple growers in Himachal Pradesh, who face competition from imported Turkish apples.
What actions has the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh taken regarding apple imports?
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has urged the Prime Minister to increase import duties on Turkish apples and impose restrictions to support local farmers.
What is the economic significance of the apple industry in Himachal Pradesh?
The apple industry is vital for Himachal Pradesh, generating an annual income of about Rs 4,500 crore and providing livelihoods for many.
What historical context is relevant to this situation?
The situation echoes past diplomatic efforts, such as the 1994 delegation to the UN, aimed at countering misinformation from adversarial nations.
