The Central government’s decision to reduce or eliminate import duties on U.S. apples, walnuts, and almonds (bowing to American pressure) poses a grave threat to Kashmir’s already struggling farmers and its fragile economy. According to the Economic Times, India currently imposes a standard 42-120% duty on almonds, 50% on apples, and 100-120% on walnuts. Lowering these barriers will flood the market with cheaper US imports, crushing Kashmir’s horticulture sector, which contributes over 75% of India’s apples and nearly 98% of its walnuts.
For decades, Kashmiri growers have battled policy neglect, inadequate marketing strategies, outdated technology, poor infrastructure, climate change, high production costs, and unstable prices. Now, they are being forced into unfair competition with those farmers who thrive on subsidies, low-interest loans, and institutional support. Meanwhile, Kashmiri farmers, despite their resilience, are left to fight alone. How is this a level playing field? What happened to ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’?
The consequences of this decision will be devastating. With cheaper foreign alternatives flooding the market, local farmers will be compelled to sell at a loss, leading many to abandon the sector altogether. This will trigger mass unemployment, affecting transporters, traders, labourers, and thousands of families dependent on horticulture. Economic distress will deepen, aggravating social problems like drug addiction and instability. Mere anti-drug campaigns won’t address the crisis when livelihoods are being systematically destroyed.
The government must protect domestic horticulture by maintaining fair tariffs, providing direct subsidies, and investing in modern infrastructure. Strengthening marketing support, ensuring MSP (Minimum Support Price), and boosting exports will help Kashmiri farmers compete globally.
If the government genuinely believes in ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ it must stand with its farmers, not against them. A nation that cannot protect its own growers can never claim true self-reliance. Kashmir’s horticulture is not just an industry; it’s a lifeline for thousands. It must be defended.
The writer is the founder of valleybazaar.in
Shahid Tariq Lone
sh*************@***il.com