The Hapus, or Alphonso mangoes, have started arriving earlier than usual in the Pune market, predominantly from Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra. Pune's Gultekdi Market traders report daily arrivals of 30 to 40 boxes, each containing 4-5 dozen mangoes, mainly from Devgad taluka, with some from Ratnagiri district. An increase in arrivals is anticipated over the next two weeks.
Typically, mangoes reach Pune markets by mid-March. Yuvraj Kachi, a Gultekdi Market trader, noted, "Given that this is the early arrival, sizes may vary, but quality is not a problem. Currently, the retail price of one box is between $60 and $240. The price depends on the quality and size."
Growers in Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri remain cautious. Mukund Joshi from the Hapus Amba Utpakad Vikreta Sahakari Sangh stated that current arrivals are from the "jackpot" season, with good prices expected. He mentioned, "Some orchards, especially those from Devgad taluka, had benefited from good rain and favorable growing conditions. The arrivals are not much but farmers can command good prices."
Mandar Khedkar, a Ratnagiri mango grower, observed his orchard is in the fruit-formation stage. He commented on the weather, "At present, our area has reported continuous days of high temperature. Orchards that have water stress would see fruit falling because of this. However, due to the good rain in the area, we are hopeful of a good harvest." In Karnataka, mango season onset is delayed, with Rohan Ursal, a commission agent, noting late flowering in some orchards. Pune's market expects more arrivals in March or April.
Source: The Indian Express
