NEW DELHI: Traders in Rajasthan have joined the growing nationwide boycott of Turkish products, with Turkish apples being pulled from shelves in Alwar fruit markets. The move comes in response to Turkiye’s (commonly called Turkey) support for Pakistan during India’s recent military operations against terror camps under ‘Operation Sindoor’. Earlier, marble traders in Ajmer had announced they would stop importing Turkish stones, aligning with the broader economic pushback against Turkiye. Tensions have escalated as Pakistan reportedly deployed Turkish drones during the military engagement with India. In reaction, the Alwar Fruit Mandi Union has enforced a complete suspension of Turkish apple sales, citing strong public sentiment and a desire to economically counter Turkiye’s stance. “More than 15 tonnes of Turkish apples arrive in Rajasthan daily between March and June,” said Saurabh Kalra, General Secretary of the Fruit Mandi Union, as quoted by PTI. “Due to Turkiye’s stand against India, we’ve decided to stop selling them. This is not just a market decision, it’s a message.” From Friday, shops will display posters reading “Boycott of Turkish apples,” and an awareness campaign will be launched to prevent any further sales. Kalra added, “If any trader is found selling them, it will be treated as an act against national interest.” Union secretary Pankaj Saini confirmed that apples from Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and South Africa would replace Turkish imports. “We have enough stock in cold storages to meet consumer demand,” he assured. The traders’ association also urged Indians to avoid Turkiye as a travel destination. “Indians should choose other destinations. If Turkiye stands with Pakistan, we will respond economically,” said Saini. Similar boycotts have been observed in fruit markets across Delhi and Mumbai. Turkiye exports goods worth over Rs 1,200 crore annually to India, with fruit, especially apples, constituting a significant share. In addition to trade, calls for a complete boycott of travel to Turkiye and Azerbaijan have gained momentum. Leading travel platforms including EaseMyTrip and Ixigo have issued advisories discouraging travel to both nations. MakeMyTrip has also discontinued all promotional offers related to Turkiye and Azerbaijan.Also read: India’s trade relations with Turkey, Azerbaijan and how it may be affected after Pakistan conflict- an explainer
