Shimla: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu while chairing a meeting with representatives of progressive orchardists of the State attended their concern over reduction of import duty on apples imported from New Zealand which have adversely affected the interests of local orchardists.
He assured them that the issue would be raised with the Central Government to find a way out to address their concerns. “I will meet the Union Finance and the Commerce Minister and urge them to take necessary measures to protect the interests of the orchardists of the state” he said, adding that apple production was a major pillar of the state’s economy and its protection and promotion was a top priority of the state government.
Other important issues were also discussed in the meeting. Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister Ram Subhag Singh, Secretary C. Palrasu, Director of Horticulture Vinay Singh, State Committee President of Himachal Apple Growers Association Sanjay Chauhan, State Secretary of Himachal Kisan Sabha Rakesh Singha, President of Stone Fruit Growers Association Deepak Singha, Vice President of Progressive Growers Association Ashutosh Chauhan and other progressive orchardists were present in the meeting.
