Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 14: Senior BJP leader and former health minister Bali Bhagat today strongly defended the proposed India-US trade agreement, asserting that the pact would unlock major economic opportunities for Jammu and Kashmir, while accusing Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of misleading the public for political reasons.
Reacting to the Chief Minister’s criticism of the trade deal-particularly concerns over duty-free imports of agricultural products-Bhagat termed the remarks “politically motivated” and aimed at creating “unnecessary fear among farmers.”
He maintained that the agreement could open up larger and more lucrative markets in the United States for J&K’s flagship products, including apples, walnuts, almonds, saffron and traditional handicrafts.
“Kashmir’s produce is known for its premium quality. Access to international markets like the US can significantly enhance demand and improve income for our farmers and artisans,” Bhagat said. He stressed that greater global trade integration would enable growers to secure better price realization for high-quality produce instead of remaining confined to limited domestic markets.
The former minister further said stronger economic engagement between India and the US could attract investments in cold storage facilities, food processing units, grading and packaging infrastructure and agri-technology in the Union Territory.
“Modern infrastructure will reduce wastage, strengthen supply chains and boost rural incomes. This is the real way to safeguard farmers’ interests,” he added.
Bhagat also highlighted the potential for employment generation, stating that increased exports and value-addition activities could create jobs for youth in logistics, agri-business, packaging and handicraft exports.
Launching a direct attack on the Chief Minister, Bhagat alleged that Omar Abdullah was attempting to divert attention from governance issues by raising concerns over the trade pact.
“The people of J&K are wise enough to judge what benefits them. Trade agreements should be viewed as opportunities for growth and prosperity, not politicised for narrow interests,” he said, reiterating the BJP’s stand that J&K must actively participate in India’s expanding global economic engagement.
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