Unseasonal Rains and Hail Damage Mango Crops, Farmers Seek Government Aid

by

Himanshu Tiwari

Unseasonal Rains and Hail Damage Mango Crops, Farmers Seek Government Aid

Mumbai, April 26: Farmers in Raigad district, Maharashtra, are facing a severe crisis due to unseasonal rains and sudden weather changes that have adversely affected mango crops.

The Konkan region, particularly the southern part of Raigad, is home to a large number of mango producers. These farmers managed to harvest their crops, but now the mangoes are lying unpicked in the orchards. With low market demand and brokers halting purchases, farmers are incurring significant losses. Traders and middlemen heading to the Vashi APMC market are also avoiding mango purchases, leaving farmers unable to recover their costs.

The situation has worsened due to international conditions. Ongoing conflicts have left mango exports stuck in containers, leading local traders to reduce their purchases. This has directly impacted farmers, who are struggling to sell their produce.

Reports indicate that this year’s mango production is significantly lower than usual, with only 20 to 25 percent of the expected yield. Consequently, the little produce that is available is not selling, deepening the economic crisis for farmers. They have appealed to the government for assistance to help them navigate these challenging times and ensure their hard work does not go to waste.

A mango farmer spoke to a news agency, stating, “We only cultivate mangoes, but this year’s weather has devastated our crops. Unseasonal rains and hail have caused significant damage. The yield from the trees is very low this year.”

He further explained that ongoing conflicts in West Asia have reduced demand for mangoes, resulting in fewer sales domestically. The rains starting in April are particularly harmful to mango crops. “We appeal to the government for help. Once it rains, the damage is substantial, and all farmers are distressed,” he added.

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