Mango Farmers in Tamil Nadu Face Severe Financial Strain Amid Price Collapse
Mango farmers in Tamil Nadu are currently experiencing significant financial difficulties, leading some to leave their crops to rot on the trees. The farm-gate price for totapuri mangoes has dropped to a historical low of Rs 3 per kilogram, whereas retail prices remain over Rs 40 per kilogram. This discrepancy has put immense pressure on farmers who already face high production costs.
In the Melur Taluk of Madurai, many farmers have resorted to cutting down their mango trees to prevent further losses. The production costs and labor charges surpass the market value of the fruit, making it financially unviable for farmers to harvest their crops. As reported, farmers invest nearly Rs 1 lakh per acre each year, yet they receive insufficient returns, with the price dropping from Rs 5 to Rs 3 per kilogram over recent years.
Jeeva, a local farmer, highlighted the disparity between the prices received by farmers and the retail prices of mango-based products. He emphasized that while a small bottle of mango juice sells for around Rs 10, farmers only receive Rs 3 per kilogram for the raw fruit. This low return makes it unfeasible for farmers to hire labor, as wages exceed the potential earnings from the harvest.
The crisis is part of a broader issue affecting mango farmers across India, with protests occurring in various states. The Indian government has intervened in some regions, such as Karnataka, where financial aid has been approved under the Market Intervention Scheme. This assistance amounts to Rs 1,750 per quintal for Totapuri mangoes, addressing the price crash to Rs 5 per kilogram.
In Andhra Pradesh, the government has introduced a subsidy of Rs 4 per kilogram to support farmers in Chittoor, Tirupati, and Annamayya districts. This measure responds to complaints that pulp factories are purchasing mangoes below production costs. The situation has prompted local leaders to seek further intervention from the central government to support struggling farmers.
