Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, May 19
Himachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has called for a nationwide ban on the import of apples from Turkey, citing both Turkey support to Pakistan during conflict with India and economic concerns for local growers. The Chief Minister Sukhu, who plans to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi on May 24, said he will formally urge the Centre to suspend trade ties with Turkey in this sector. Sukhu said he is also writing to the Prime Minister to press the issue.
“There is deep anger across the country,” Sukhu told reporters. “Turkey openly sided with Pakistan. At the same time, their cheap apples are flooding our markets, hurting the income of Himachal’s apple growers. This must stop,” he said.
Sukhu’s remarks also come as his administration considers decentralising some government functions from the overburdened state capital, Shimla. “There is no plan to move entire departments,” he clarified, “but we may shift some government offices to reduce traffic congestion. Vacant government buildings in other areas can be put to use,” he said.
Commenting on Employees, he said, would be transferred voluntarily, and new recruitment may be carried out where necessary. Turning to tourism, Sukhu sought to reassure travellers that Himachal Pradesh remains one of India’s safest states. “There has never been a situation here like the recent attack in Kashmir,” he said. “Himachal is calm and peaceful. Tourists are welcome here without fear.”
