The Tamil Nadu Farmers Association, India, has planned a statewide protest on June 10, calling for government action in response to the decline in mango procurement prices, impacting many growers.
Protests will occur in major mango-producing districts such as Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Tirupattur, Vellore, Salem, Namakkal, Dindigul, and Theni. Farmers seek a tripartite meeting including representatives from the farming, trading, and government sectors to establish consistent mango procurement prices.
According to Sami Natarajan, General Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Farmers Association, "Mango cultivation is a key agricultural activity in these regions. Although the past few years have seen lower yields due to erratic weather, this year has brought a good harvest. Unfortunately, farmers are unable to reap the benefits due to abysmally low market prices."
Allegations suggest traders have significantly lowered prices, impacting farmers financially as prices fall to Rs 4 (US$ 0.048) per kilogram, not covering cultivation costs. The Association seeks an urgent Minimum Support Price (MSP) and financial compensation for affected farmers.
Sami Natarajan emphasizes infrastructure development, including pulp processing, cold storage, and marketing facilities to stabilize farmer income and minimize post-harvest losses. "The government should establish pulp processing units, cold storage facilities, and marketing infrastructure to stabilise income and reduce post-harvest losses," he noted.
The protest aims to address farmers' demands for an equitable procurement system in the horticulture industry, during peak mango season when selling produce quickly is critical.
Source: Suryaa
