Chandigarh, 12 March: Farmers across Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand face a severe threat. This is due to the looming United States reciprocal tariffs. Cheap American apple imports are flooding Indian markets. In this connection, The Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Union (KVFGU) has sounded the alarm. They warn that this influx of low-cost apples will shrink market space and crash prices. It will also endanger the livelihoods of over 7 lakh families dependent on apple farming.

Punjab Speaker Urges Centre to Protect Farmers’ Interests

Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan urged the Government of India to act immediately to protect Indian farmers’ interests. He emphasized key demands, including imposing Protective Counter-Tariffs to ensure a level playing field by matching duties on US apples. Additionally, he called for Immediate Economic Relief, stressing the need for financial support to prevent income loss and sustain production.

Apple imports : Sandhwan Calls for Pro-Farmer Trade Talks, Stronger Agri Infrastructure

He further emphasized the need for Pro-Farmer Trade Negotiations to ensure that Indian farmers’ livelihoods remain non-negotiable in all trade talks with the US. Additionally, he stressed the importance of strengthening agricultural infrastructure to modernize storage facilities, improve transportation, and enhance market access, ultimately boosting the competitiveness of Indian produce. Kultar Singh Sandhwan stated that India’s economy relies on the hard work of its farmers. Their sweat and toil nourish the nation. He emphasized that international trade wars must not harm them. Sandhwan urged the government to take action, warning that inaction could threaten both livelihoods and generations of agricultural heritage. He further added that 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. He further highlighted that this is not just about apples, it’s about standing up for every Indian farmer.  He added that 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”, said Sandhwa