In Salem, Tamil Nadu, a significant decrease in mango yield has led to a substantial price increase for the fruit. This year, an acute dry spell has resulted in a 40 to 50 percent price hike across all mango varieties, with production dropping considerably. J. Sreenivasan, a wholesale mango merchant in Salem, noted that the harvest was just about ten percent of the usual yield.
Premium varieties like 'Imam Pasand' and Salem Bangolord have seen retail prices jump from Rs 150-180 last year to Rs 200-250. Despite hopes for a recovery following a poor harvest last season, continuous dry conditions and unfavorable weather led to a loss of flowers and fruit. The mango season, typically bolstered by March and April summer showers, was delayed by a month, with expectations for an early end. High prices notwithstanding, nearly 90 percent of farmers are reporting significant losses. The local market now receives 15 to 20 tonnes of mangoes, down from the usual 50 to 80 tonnes, affecting both domestic supply and exports. R. Vinod highlighted that the current supply doesn't even suffice for domestic needs, leaving no room for exports this season.
[ Rs 100 = €1.10 ]
Source: dtnext.in