Indo US Trade Deal Will Hurt J and K Economy, Warns Omar Abdullah
Jammu, KNT: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday cautioned that the proposed Indo US trade arrangement could negatively impact Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, particularly its horticulture and allied sectors, asserting that the Union Territory stands to lose rather than benefit.
In Legislative Assembly, Omar Abdullah said the economic structure of Jammu and Kashmir is fundamentally different from coastal regions of the country. As per Kashmir News Corner, the Chief Minister said the local economy is largely dependent on dry fruits, fresh fruits and dairy products, sectors that could suffer if similar products are allowed duty free imports.
He said Jammu and Kashmir does not have a marine based economy and depends on items such as almonds, saffron, apples, kiwis and milk products for livelihood and revenue generation. Allowing such products to enter the market without protective duties would place local producers at a disadvantage, he said.
The Chief Minister said his concerns were rooted in ground realities and not political positioning. He asserted that from the proposed trade arrangement, the Union Territory would not see any tangible gains, but would instead face economic setbacks.
Responding to criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party and demands for an apology, Omar Abdullah said there was no question of retracting his remarks. He said he was not given the opportunity to fully explain his position earlier and questioned why he should apologise for speaking in the interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Taking a dig at the Leader of Opposition, the Chief Minister questioned his commitment to nationalism, saying those who deliver lectures on patriotism failed to remain present even during official Republic Day functions.
On the Amarnath Yatra, Omar Abdullah rejected claims that the administration was compelled to facilitate the pilgrimage. He said the people of Kashmir have always supported the Yatra and played a central role in its conduct, adding that the pilgrimage has historically been facilitated with local cooperation.
Commenting on India Pakistan cricket ties, the Chief Minister said issuing threats without the will to follow through serves no purpose. He said such statements only weaken credibility and should be avoided.
The Chief Minister also defended the present government’s budgetary approach, stating that unrealistic and unfunded budgets were presented between 2015 and 2018. He said during that period, budgets exceeding available resources were placed before the public, resulting in significant unfunded liabilities. [KNT]
