Salem, June 2: Farmers in Salem district of Tamil Nadu are grappling with a severe economic crisis due to a significant drop in okra prices in Sangagiri and surrounding areas.
The decline in prices has forced farmers to halt harvesting, leaving their crops standing in the fields. Villages such as Thevur, Arasiramani, Kullampatti, Chettipatti, Kunjampalayam, Odasakkarai, and Thannidasanur are known for okra cultivation. Approximately 500 acres are dedicated to this crop, which serves as a primary source of income for many farming families.
Typically, okra is sold to large traders who then distribute it to wholesale markets in Tamil Nadu and neighboring Kerala. Farmers report that a sudden market downturn over the past week has led to this price drop.
Currently, okra is fetching only about 5 rupees per kilogram, significantly below production costs. Farmers express concern over rising expenses for seeds, fertilizers, irrigation, labor, and transportation. The price decline has rendered harvesting economically unviable.
According to farmers, the revenue from selling vegetables often fails to cover the costs of hiring labor for harvesting and transporting the produce to collection points. Consequently, many have completely ceased harvesting and left ripe vegetables on the plants.
Farmers are urging the government to closely monitor the situation and intervene to prevent further losses. They are calling for measures to stabilize prices and ensure fair profits for vegetable growers.
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