Shimla, May 20 || A delegation of the Sanyukt Kisan Manch, mainly comprising apple growers, on Tuesday, called on Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla at Raj Bhavan here and submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking a ban on the import of apples from Turkey.
Manch convener Harish Chauhan apprised the Governor that India currently imports apples from around 44 countries, with Turkey alone exporting nearly 1.29 lakh metric tons apples annually.
He said that Turkey earns nearly Rs 800 to 1,000 crore from apple exports to India.
Highlighting the significance of the apple industry in the state, Chauhan said the state produces between 6 and 10 lakh metric tons apples every year and nearly three to four lakh families are directly dependent on its plantation.
He said that banning apple imports from Turkey would not only boost the economy of the state but also send a strong message against countries that support terrorism and maintain close ties with Pakistan.
The Governor expressed support for the demands of the growers and assured the delegation that their memorandum would be forwarded to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi.
He added that the matter directly concerns the economic well-being of the state and the interests of farmers and orchardists must be protected.