Punjab speaker urges action against cheap US apple imports

Farmers in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are facing a serious crisis due to the impending U.S. reciprocal tariffs, which could result in a surge of cheap American apple imports into Indian markets.

The Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Union (KVFGU) has raised concerns, warning that this influx could severely impact Indian apple growers by reducing market opportunities, driving down prices, and threatening the livelihoods of over 7 lakh farming families.

Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan has called on the Government of India to take immediate action to safeguard Indian farmers. He emphasized the need for Protective Counter-Tariffs, advocating for equal import duties on U.S. apples to maintain fair competition.

He also stressed the importance of Immediate Economic Relief, urging financial support for farmers to prevent income losses and sustain production.

Additionally, he highlighted the need for Pro-Farmer Trade Negotiations, ensuring that the interests of Indian farmers remain a priority in trade discussions with the U.S. Strengthening Agricultural Infrastructure, including modernized storage, transportation, and better market access, was another key demand to enhance the competitiveness of Indian apples.

Kultar Singh Sandhwan reaffirmed, "Our farmers are the backbone of India’s economy. Their sweat and toil nourish the nation. It is unacceptable for them to suffer at the hands of international trade wars. If the Government does not step in, we are at risk of losing not only livelihoods but also generations of agricultural heritage."

He further stressed, "Cheap foreign imports may benefit a few traders, but they will devastate countless small and marginal farmers. We cannot let profit-driven policies crush the hands that feed us."

Emphasizing the broader implications, he added, "This is not just about apples, it’s about standing up for every Indian farmer. The Government must ensure our farmers get fair prices, fair markets, and a fair future. I stand with our farmers, and I urge the government to do the same, without delay."