Himachal Apple Growers Demand Action Amid Land, Trade Conflicts

A crucial meeting took place on Thursday involving apple growers from Himachal Pradesh and the state's Horticulture Minister, Jagat Singh Negi, aimed at resolving pressing issues in the horticulture sector. The meeting, held against the backdrop of recent Supreme Court mandates and a deepening agrarian crisis, primarily addressed land rights, fungal crop diseases, and market declines due to early harvesting.

Farmers confirmed plans for a large-scale protest on August 13 across Himachal Pradesh. They appealed to the Indian government to counteract US tariffs on Indian apples. After the discussions, Harish Chauhan, the Convener of the Joint Farmers' Forum, expressed a positive outcome from the meeting with officials.

Chauhan highlighted discussions on the Supreme Court's halt on tree felling and its ramifications on Shamlat lands which have historical farm rights. Since the 1980 reclassification of these lands as forest land under the Forest Conservation Act, many small farmers have faced significant challenges. The state's inability to distribute such lands for public use or development due to federal control has further complicated the issue.

The meeting emphasized the necessity of reclaiming Shamlat lands for public use post-calamities. Furthermore, Chauhan raised alarms over Marssonina blotch and Alternaria in apple crops, stressing the need for proper harvesting to maintain market stability and quality recognition for Himachal's apples.

Imported apple concerns amid Iran's conflict and US tariff threats were discussed. Growers urged for a strong government stance against US duty hikes, citing past retaliations on steel and aluminium tariffs. The situation is described as part of a broader fight for farmers' rights and economic justice in Himachal.

Rakesh Singha, convener of the Apple Federation of India, called for legal and political measures to protect Himachal's farmers, framing the crisis as systemic neglect since the 1980s. The upcoming August 13 protest may prove pivotal in the ongoing agrarian struggle across the state.