Shimla: Horticulture Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Jagat Singh Negi, took charge of a crucial review meeting of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) tasked with protecting the interests of stakeholders involved in apple production and marketing.

 The meeting focused on addressing concerns related to the Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation Limited (HPMC), Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee (APMC), and the Himachal Pradesh State Agricultural Marketing Board.

Minister Negi emphasized the pivotal role that apples play in the state's economy, with Himachal gaining recognition for its nationwide apple production. He reaffirmed the state government's dedication to safeguarding the interests of everyone associated with apple production and marketing.

In an effort to curb fraudulent activities within the apple trade, the Minister announced plans to raise awareness among the people of the state. He highlighted the effective implementation of the APMC Act to prosecute individuals engaged in deceptive practices, ensuring that they are held accountable for any losses incurred by the state and apple growers.

The Act provides for the cancellation of licenses for those found guilty, and Minister Negi instructed authorities to enforce this provision rigorously.

The Minister directed officials to maintain heightened vigilance in fruit markets to reduce such cases and urged strict adherence to all rules to prevent stakeholders from facing difficulties. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among SIT, HPMC, APMC, and the Himachal Pradesh State Agricultural Marketing Board.

During the meeting, SIT Member Arvind Digvijay Negi presented a detailed overview of the ongoing efforts.

The gathering was attended by high-ranking officials, including ADGP Satwant Atwal, Managing Director of HPMC Sudesh Kumar Mokhta, and senior officers from APMC, Himachal Pradesh State Agricultural Marketing Board, and other relevant departments.

The concerted efforts led by the Horticulture Minister and the SIT demonstrate a commitment to ensuring fair practices within the apple trade and holding accountable those who fail to make rightful payments to farmers.