The Tamil Nadu Farmers' Association in India is calling for intervention from Chief Minister MK Stalin to address the pressing issue faced by mango growers in the region. Despite a bumper harvest, the absence of a regulated price mechanism has resulted in economic distress for cultivators as they are left with no choice but to let ripe mangoes perish due to insufficient purchasing rates.
In the statement from the Association, leaders noted the challenging scenario wherein "buyers offer unviable low rates — as little as $0.04 to $0.05 per kg — against a previous procurement rate of around $0.30." This discrepancy has caused financial strain, leaving farmers without viable options for their produce.
Tamil Nadu is ranked sixth in mango production within India, contributing an estimated annual yield of 3 lakh metric tonnes. The association highlighted past issues related to low yield due to a chemical known as "Kalther" but pointed out that this year's favorable output paradoxically subjects farmers to the dictates of private pulp processors and traders. The apparent lack of state-operated processing facilities is further exacerbating the situation.
Demands have been made for district-level discussions that would include farmers, traders, processing unit stakeholders, and government representatives to establish fair procurement prices. There is also a call for the government to initiate pulp mills, along with cold storage solutions in key mango-producing areas. Compensation for affected farmers is also urged as a remedial measure.
Source: DT Next
