In the South of India, mango growers are facing significant production challenges for the third consecutive year due to drought, severe heat, low rainfall, and mildew infestation. A mango farmer from Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu, represents the plight of many, witnessing a drastic reduction in yield from an expected seven to 10 tons per acre to struggling to reach even 2 tons. This situation has led to consecutive years of losses for the region's farmers.
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India, accounting for nearly 50% of global mango cultivation with almost 1,000 varieties, sees a rising interest in mango cultivation across more states, supported by the introduction of hybrid and dwarf tree varieties aimed at the export market. Despite the domestic challenges, the demand for Indian mangoes remains high internationally, with exports reaching 22 million tons in 2020, 27 million tons in 2021, and 22 million tons again in 2022, as per the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). Official export statistics for the current year are pending.
Source: thefederal.com