Dehradun: A wave of anger has swept across India following Turkey’s pro-Pakistan stance after the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. In response, fruit traders, wholesalers, and cold storage operators in Dehradun have announced a complete boycott of Turkish apples, shifting their focus to domestic produce from Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
The boycott is gaining traction, with consumers favoring Himachal and Uttarakhand apples in protest against Turkey’s anti-India rhetoric.
Turkish apples removed from markets
Members of the Fruit Traders Association in Dehradun have begun removing Turkish apples from their stock, citing deep resentment over Turkey’s stance. Traders argue that after India suffered a terror attack, Turkey’s support for Pakistan was unacceptable, warranting strict trade measures.
A trader in the market explained the reasoning behind the boycott: “If Turkey backs Pakistan after an attack on our soil, why should we support their economy? Instead, we will buy from our own farmers. The demand for apples from Kashmir, Uttarakhand and Himachal has surged, benefiting local growers.”
Strict stand from cold storage operators
Cold storage operators, who play a crucial role in fruit distribution across Uttarakhand, have also refused to accept any imports from Turkey. They view this as an opportunity to promote Indian farmers, ensuring that the country’s own apple industry flourishes. “We will prioritize our apples,” stated one cold storage owner. “This will strengthen India’s economy while sending a strong message to Turkey.” Dehradun, known for being a major fruit trade hub, is now completely banning Turkish imports, a move that could spread to other regions.
Public support for indigenous produce
The boycott has gained massive support among local customers, who have also urged traders to uphold the protest. Many consumers are now actively choosing Himachal and local apples, encouraging their widespread adoption in markets nationwide. Traders believe this protest, starting from Dehradun, could expand across India, evolving into a nationwide movement that pressures Turkey diplomatically and economically.
Uttarakhand’s farmers to benefit
The boycott of Turkish apples is expected to boost local apple farming, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir, and Uttarakhand. Increased demand for indigenous apples will likely raise farmers’ incomes and enhance India’s self-reliance in fruit production. A farmer from Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, echoed this sentiment, demanding a complete halt on Turkish imports. “India produces enough apples in Himachal, Kashmir, and Uttarakhand. We should not rely on imports at all,” said apple grower Aman Dogra. “If we must import, duties should be higher, as many Indian families depend entirely on apple production.”
Political and economic implications
This boycott comes in the wake of India-Pakistan tensions, with many traders viewing trade restrictions as a form of protest against Turkey’s anti-India rhetoric. Experts suggest that a sustained boycott could impact Turkey’s exports to India while reinforcing domestic agricultural policies. Authorities in fruit trading hubs across India are watching Dehradun’s stance closely. If the movement gains traction, it could reshape import policies and bolster local farming economies on a national scale.
