Himachal's Apple Crisis: Unpaid Dues and New Government Measures

Himachal Pradesh's Agriculture Minister, Chander Kumar, reported 379 cases of non-payment related to apple purchases over three years. These complaints span multiple districts and total unpaid liabilities of Rs 8.05 crore. The government is modifying bank guarantees to prevent fraud and protect apple growers.

In a revealing session at the Himachal Pradesh state assembly, Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar reported 379 unresolved cases where apple growers were not paid for their produce. The majority of these complaints arose in Shimla, Kinnaur, Solan, Kullu, and Lahaul-Spiti, amounting to an alarming Rs 8.05 crore in unpaid liabilities.

To tackle this persistent issue, the state government has announced changes to the bank guarantee requirements for licenses. This decisive step is aimed at preventing unscrupulous commission agents and importers from absconding after purchasing apples.

Amid growing frustrations from small orchardists, Congress MLA Kuldeep Rathore has called for immediate and robust action to return dues to farmers, highlighting substantial financial losses in the Shilaru market due to disappearing transporters.

(With inputs from agencies.)