BJP destroying Himachal’s Apple economy: Kuldeep Rathore

India Congress Committee spokesperson and Theog MLA, Kuldeep Singh Rathore, has accused the BJP-led NDA government of undermining the country’s significant apple economy. Rathore highlighted the alleged illegal smuggling of Iranian apples into India through Afghanistan, calling it a “well-planned strategy” that raises serious concerns.

In a recent statement, Rathore alleged that the Central government is intentionally promoting foreign apple sales in India to potentially secure foreign funding advantages for the BJP. Reacting to reports that Iranian apples are being sold in India at Rs. 90 per kg via Afghanistan, Rathore pointed out that he had previously raised the issue of foreign apple imports in the state assembly. Subsequently, the Himachal Pradesh government sought clarification from the Centre.

He expressed surprise that, despite assurances from the Central government to protect the interests of domestic apple producers, particularly those in Himachal Pradesh, the influx of Iranian apples continues. This situation, he emphasized, negatively impacts demand for Indian apples stored in cold storage, an issue he deems deeply concerning.

Rathore has called on the Central government to immediately halt the import and marketing of Iranian apples, asserting that any compromise to the interests of Himachal’s apple growers is unacceptable.