Shimla: BJP spokesperson Sandeepani Bhardwaj has said that the concerns of apple growers in Himachal Pradesh are a top priority and the apple-based economy is the lifeline of the state. She stated that safeguarding the interests of orchardists remains the foremost priority of both the BJP and the Central Government. She asserted that the Modi government stands firmly with apple producers of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand, and will not allow any compromise with their interests under any circumstances.
Bhardwaj said that the questions and apprehensions arising among orchardists regarding the recently concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union are being taken seriously by the government. She emphasised that apple cultivation is not merely a crop but a major source of livelihood, employment and economic stability for lakhs of families in the state. Therefore, it is essential that Himachali apples receive fair pricing and adequate market protection.
She added that the implementation of the FTA is scheduled for 2027, giving the government sufficient time to introduce effective safeguards for orchardists. Measures such as Minimum Import Price (MIP), quality standards, market regulation and protective provisions will be adopted to ensure that imported apples do not adversely affect local producers.
The BJP spokesperson further stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Central Government has consistently rolled out schemes and support mechanisms for farmers and orchardists. Investments have been made in cold storage facilities, processing units, transportation networks and agricultural infrastructure to strengthen the horticulture sector and make apple growers self-reliant.
She maintained that the BJP’s clear stance is that apple producers of Himachal will not be weakened by global competition. The government will continue dialogue with orchardists, address their concerns and adopt all necessary policy measures to secure the apple industry.
Bhardwaj also accused the Congress party of attempting to politicise the issue, asserting that the BJP’s sole priority is the welfare of Himachal’s orchardists. She expressed confidence that the Central Government will ensure fair support prices, better market access and continued protection for Himachali apples, reiterating that the interests, rights and prosperity of apple growers remain paramount.