Apple growers’ interests must come first: Kuldeep Rathore

AICC spokesperson Kuldeep Rathore on Friday criticised the Central Government over the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States, warning the interests of the state’s apple growers must not be compromised. He said lowering import duties could hit Himachal’s economy, which relies heavily on horticulture, as an influx of cheaper imported apples would lead to falling prices, increased competition and significant losses for local farmers.

Rathore, while referring to a resolution passed in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, told mediapersons the move was not merely symbolic but sent a strong message urging the Central Government to prioritise farmers’ interests in policymaking. He also called for unity among hill states such as Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir, urging them to pass similar resolutions to collectively pressure the Centre.

Rathore said India must not yield to US pressure, emphasising that the interests of farmers and orchardists should remain paramount in any international agreement.

At the same time, Rathore, as chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee’s Discipline Committee, underlined the importance of internal party discipline. He stressed the party’s strength depends on leaders and workers functioning strictly within its constitutional framework. Rathore said he does not work under external pressure and all decisions will align with party interests and constitutional provisions.

Issuing a stern warning, he said any MLA, office-bearer, or party leader interfering in organisational matters or expressing personal views publicly outside party platforms would be deemed indiscipline and face strict action.