“Sweet Relief for Apple Growers”: Centre Hikes MIP to ₹80/kg, But Farmers Demand Action Beyond Words

Apple farmers across Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand have welcomed the Centre’s decision to raise the Minimum Import Price (MIP) for imported apples from ₹50 to ₹80 per kg, calling it a “positive step” to protect domestic produce from cheap foreign imports, especially from Iran and Turkey. However, farmer groups like the Himachal Pradesh Samyukt Kisan Manch warn that without strict enforcement at ports, the move may remain symbolic.

 

In 2023–24, despite a ₹50/kg MIP, Iranian apples entered India at ₹41/kg and Turkish at ₹58/kg, undercutting local prices. Farmers now demand 100% import duty and real-time monitoring to ensure imported apples land at ₹135–₹140/kg, making Indian varieties competitive.

 

Concerns are also rising over potential zero-duty trade deals with the U.S., which could allow Washington apples to flood Indian markets, threatening the livelihoods of 15 lakh families dependent on apple farming. With 2.5 crore apple boxes expected this season and 450 roads blocked by rains, growers are urging the government to act swiftly on logistics and enforcement.

 

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Source: The Hindu BusinessLine – Apple Growers Welcome MIP Hike, Demand Enforcement | Zee Business – Farmers Demand 100% Duty on Foreign Apples