SRINAGAR, February 14: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed optimism Saturday that Bangladesh’s new government would mend strained ties with India, stressing stable neighbors benefit the nation, while criticizing the India-US trade deal as a looming disaster for the Union Territory’s vital horticulture sector.
Speaking after inaugurating the annual ‘GONGUL’ agritech festival at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Abdullah advocated for democracy and prosperity in Bangladesh. “The more stable our neighboring countries—be it Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, or others—the better for us. No one wants wars or instability,” he told reporters. He hoped post-government formation, bilateral relations would improve after recent bitterness.
On the Indo-US trade agreement, Abdullah foresaw only losses for J&K. “Duty-free imports of almonds, walnuts, apples, fresh and dry fruits—exactly what we produce—will flood markets,” he warned. Dismissing government assurances of no impact, he questioned: “They say J&K fruits won’t sell below Rs 70/kg, implying outsiders sell premium while we offload subpar produce? That’s an insult to our growers who’ve invested heavily in quality.”
He highlighted advancements like new varieties, timely market access via Controlled Atmosphere (CA) stores, and tech-driven upgrades. “Now you’re saying dump low-value items locally? A huge joke. We need our best products competing globally,” Abdullah asserted, predicting devastation without benefits.
Abdullah outlined efforts with UT agriculture universities to deliver organic, tech solutions boosting rural economies. “Lakhs attend GONGUL for innovations. To rival US produce post-deal, we must enhance productivity and quality—this festival is key.” The comments underscore J&K’s agri-reliance amid national trade shifts.
