Shimla, Feb. 5 -- Apple growers in Himachal Pradesh have announced a mass movement against the proposed zero import tariff on apples from the United States, warning that the move could devastate the state's apple-based economy. Farmer leaders have termed the proposed India-US trade deal anti-farmer and have sought the intervention of the Himachal Pradesh government.

Apple accounts for nearly 80% of the state's total fruit production and generates an annual income of around Rs.4,500 crore. The crop is the backbone of Himachal's rural economy, directly and indirectly supporting 5-6 lakh families.

Growers point out that Himachal produces only 7-8 tonnes of apples per hectare, compared to 40-70 tonnes per hectare in countries such as New Ze...