Nationwide Farmers' Strike: A Fight Against Zero-Tariff Imports
Farmer unions in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand announce a strike on July 9, opposing potential zero-tariff import agreements between India and the US. They fear these measures will harm local agricultural producers. Leaders urge unity among farmers and call on MPs to address their grievances.
- Country:
- India
Farmers' unions and apple growers from Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand have announced a nationwide strike scheduled for July 9. The strike aims to protest the potential inclusion of agricultural produce in a zero-tariff framework reportedly under negotiation between India and the United States.
In a recent meeting in Shimla, horticultural organizations from these regions voiced concerns that such agreements could endanger the livelihood of local growers. Rakesh Singha, a former MLA and convener of the Himachal Pradesh Sanyukt Kisan Manch, confirmed that fruit producers and the All India Kisan and Mazdoor organizations will participate in the strike.
Prominent leaders, including MLA Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, emphasize the broader implications of these policies. While they stress the need to protect import duties and local markets, they also point to broader economic struggles affecting workers nationwide. The call to action is clear: a united front is necessary to safeguard their livelihood and demand greater governmental accountability.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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