Srinagar, Feb 9 (JKNS): Bhartiya Janta Party Jammu and Kashmir spokesman Altaf Thakur today said the India-US agreement reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to putting farmers first while integrating India with the global economy.
He said misinformation is being spread by Congress and some regional parties to create panic among apple growers of Jammu & Kashmir. Thakur clarified that domestic production and consumption figures themselves prove that Kashmir apples will not be harmed.
“India produces around 21 lakh tonnes of apples and consumes nearly 26 lakh tonnes. Every year we already import about 5 lakh tonnes from countries like Iran and Turkey to meet demand. Even with the United States entering the market, imports are being allowed in a phased and limited manner around 1 lakh tonnes in the first year, 1.25 lakh tonnes in the second year and about 1.50 lakh tonnes in the third year. Even after that, India will still require nearly 3.5 lakh tonnes of imports. There is no threat to our growers,” he said.
He further explained that American apples are high-value products. “An imported apple lands at roughly Rs 80 per kg, attracts about Rs 25 duty and reaches markets at around Rs 150 per kg. This is a premium segment and cannot replace the locally produced Kashmiri apple which dominates Indian markets,” Thakur added.
Calling the agreement a forward-looking economic understanding, the BJP leader said lower tariffs compared to countries like Indonesia will boost exports, logistics, food processing and cold-storage infrastructure, thereby generating employment for youth.
“This is not merely a trade deal; it is a development roadmap. Prime Minister Modi has ensured farmers remain secure while new global opportunities are created for our young entrepreneurs and exporters. The agreement strengthens the economy and integrates Jammu & Kashmir’s horticulture sector with international markets,” he said. (JKNS)