Kuldeep Singh Rathore Urges Action Against Apple Disease in Himachal Pradesh
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 18: Kuldeep Singh Rathore, spokesperson for the All India Congress Committee and legislator from Theog assembly segment, has called on the state government to declare the disease affecting apple crops an epidemic. Speaking in Shimla, Rathore highlighted the severe impact of the ‘Alternaria’ disease on apple orchards, which is affecting the size and color of apples and causing premature leaf drop.
Rathore emphasized that the disease has reached epidemic levels in many areas, with up to 95 percent of orchards affected. He urged the state government to seek help from the central government to combat the disease, drawing parallels to the successful management of the scab disease in 1982-83 with central assistance.
He also called for thorough research to eradicate the disease and questioned the quality of available medicines. Rathore suggested monitoring imported apple plants to prevent the introduction of new diseases and advocated for strict quarantine measures.
Rathore warned that without immediate action, the apple economy in Himachal Pradesh, valued at Rs 5000 crore, could face severe threats, worsening the financial struggles of apple growers.
Doubts Revealed
Kuldeep Singh Rathore -: Kuldeep Singh Rathore is a politician from Himachal Pradesh, India. He is a spokesperson for the All India Congress Committee and a legislator from Theog.
All India Congress Committee -: The All India Congress Committee (AICC) is the central decision-making assembly of the Indian National Congress, a major political party in India.
Theog -: Theog is a town in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its apple orchards and is represented by Kuldeep Singh Rathore in the legislative assembly.
Himachal Pradesh -: Himachal Pradesh is a state in northern India, known for its beautiful mountains and apple orchards.
Alternaria disease -: Alternaria is a type of fungal disease that affects plants, including apple trees. It can cause spots on leaves and fruit, leading to significant crop damage.
epidemic -: An epidemic is when a disease spreads quickly and affects many plants, animals, or people in a particular area.
central government intervention -: Central government intervention means that the main government of India, located in New Delhi, would step in to help solve the problem.
monitoring of imported apple plants -: Monitoring of imported apple plants means keeping a close watch on apple plants that are brought into India from other countries to ensure they are healthy and free from diseases.
Rs 5000 crore apple economy -: The Rs 5000 crore apple economy refers to the total value of the apple industry in Himachal Pradesh, which is worth 5000 crore rupees (a large amount of money).