Indian Apple Farmers Demand 100% Import Duty to Protect Local Industry

Apple Farmers Federation of India (AFFI) has called for a 100 per cent duty on apple imports to protect local farmers. This demand was made during a national convention of apple farmers in Kulgam district, where CPIM leader M Y Tarigami addressed the media.

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Demand for Higher Import Duty

Tarigami urged the government to halt the corporatisation of the apple industry and impose a 100 per cent import duty. He emphasised that this measure is crucial to safeguard local farmers from foreign competition.

The convention also passed a resolution demanding that farmers receive at least 50 per cent of the retail price as the minimum procurement price. This policy aims to ensure fair compensation for apple growers.

Insurance and Storage Facilities

In addition to pricing policies, the AFFI convention called for a complete ban on spurious pesticides and fertilisers. They also sought insurance coverage for farmers under public sector schemes.

Tarigami highlighted the need for subsidised storage facilities directly for farmers. He criticised the current system where corporate companies receive a 50 per cent subsidy to build Controlled Atmosphere Stores (CAS) but charge commercial rent.

Criticism of Government Policies

AFFI National Coordinator Rakesh Singha criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for reducing the import duty on apples from 70 per cent to 50 per cent in an agreement with US President Joe Biden. Singha argued that this policy harms local farmers and benefits corporations.

"Due to corporatisation of the apple industry, common people are unable to consume apples," Singha said. He reiterated the demand for a price policy ensuring that farmers receive 50 per cent of the retail price as their procurement price.

Memorandum Submission

The farmer leaders plan to submit a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister of Agriculture through Members of Parliament. This memorandum will outline their demands and seek government intervention to support local apple farmers.

The AFFI's demands reflect growing concerns among apple farmers about their livelihoods and the impact of government policies on their industry. The call for higher import duties, fair pricing, and better support systems highlights the challenges faced by these farmers.