AFFI Demands 100% Import Duty on Apples to Protect Local Farmers

The Apple Farmers' Federation of India (AFFI) has called for a 100% duty on apple imports to protect local growers. During a national convention, leaders demanded a minimum procurement price of 50% of retail and a ban on spurious pesticides. AFFI slammed recent government agreements lowering import duties.

The Apple Farmers' Federation of India (AFFI) on Sunday demanded a 100 per cent duty on apple imports to save local farmers. Speaking after a national convention of apple farmers in Kulgam district, CPI(M) leader M Y Tarigami urged the government to end the corporatisation of the apple industry and implement the hefty import duty. Another resolution passed at the convention called for a minimum procurement price equivalent to 50 per cent of the retail price.

Additionally, the AFFI sought a complete ban on spurious pesticides and fertilisers, as well as insurance coverage for farmers in the public sector. The convention participants also demanded subsidised storage facilities, pointing out that the government currently provides a 50 per cent subsidy to corporate companies for Controlled Atmosphere Stores (CAS), which are then rented out at commercial rates.

AFFI National Coordinator Rakesh Singha criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for signing an agreement with US President Joe Biden to reduce the import duty on apples from 70 per cent to 50 per cent. Singha argued that corporatisation is making apples unaffordable for common people and called for a price policy ensuring that farmers receive 50 per cent of the retail price. The farmer leaders plan to submit a memorandum to the Prime Minister and the Union Minister of Agriculture through Members of Parliament.

(With inputs from agencies.)