Union Minister vows to address Srinagar apple traders demands
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday assured apple traders in Jammu and Kashmir to look into their demand for greater protection from imports, but emphasised the need to balance the interests of both growers and consumers.
Goyal also said he will take up the suggestion of stakeholders to reduce goods and services tax (GST) on handicrafts.
The industry has called for a cut in GST from 12 per cent to 5 per cent.
“I have asked them to share the details with the Union finance ministry also. I will also talk and see how to bring (products) in the 5 per cent (GST) bracket… we will try to find a solution to this,” he said, while addressing FTII Traders’ Conclave in Srinagar.
On Kashmiri apples, he said the industry has requested for more protection on this fruit, which at present attracts a minimum import price (MIP) Rs 50 per Kg and 50 per cent import duty.
After accounting for all charges and costs, including transportation, marketing, branding, and retailing, consumers pay Rs 125-150 per kg, he said, adding that there is also a need to balance the interests of consumers and farmers.
At present, India imports 4.5-5 lakh metric tonnes of apple every year to meet the shortage in the domestic market. “I will talk to the (Union) agriculture ministry (on the issue),” he said.
Further, he said India is signing new free trade agreements (FTAs) to provide nearer market access to Indian goods and services.
He added that India will always protect the interest of Indian industry and consumers on these agreements.
“This is our priority. We will always protect the interest of Jammu and Kashmir and the county in these pacts,” the minister said.
Speaking on the conclave’s theme, Goyal said, “Vocal for Local is not just a slogan; it is the guiding philosophy for India’s rise as a manufacturing power and a trusted global trading partner. From the local shopkeeper to our leading exporters, everyone has a role in building a Viksit Bharat.”
He said delegations had raised concerns about the need to integrate advanced packaging technologies with the handloom, handicraft and horticulture sectors. Goyal assured that he would take up the matter with the Indian Institute of Packaging and would fast-track the establishment of a regional centre in Kashmir.
On the proposal to establish a Centre of Excellence for Startups and Innovation, Goyal expressed his support, suggesting a public-private partnership model. He also encouraged collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture to strengthen research and development in agri-entrepreneurship.
Responding positively to the idea of setting up a solar power project in the Lassipora Industrial Estate, Goyal underscored its potential for green-certified production and the promotion of clean energy.
Condemning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Goyal praised the unity displayed by Kashmiris in its aftermath, saying it sent a powerful message to the world. He reiterated that peace, safety, and solidarity are the foundations of progress, and tourism would continue to be one of the region’s greatest strengths.
Calling for sustained tourism promotion, the Minister emphasised that cultural events, yatras, and trade conclaves should be regularly organised to invite both the nation and the world to witness Kashmir’s peace and progress.
J & K