Orange growers in Amravati district, India, are facing water shortages and October heat following a 43% rainfall deficit during the monsoon. Growers report increased fruit drop, reduced fruit size, and difficulties maintaining orchards.
In the Nagpur mandarin belt, growers estimate that orange trees have been removed from around 5,000 hectares. The growing region, covering Chandur Bazar and surrounding areas, has approximately 35,000 hectares of orange orchards.
Water stress during flowering and fruit development is affecting yields, while higher temperatures are increasing disease pressure. Growers are also facing rising fertilizer, pesticide, labor, electricity, and irrigation costs, alongside uncertain market prices.
Pushpak Khapre, a member of the Amravati district fruit crop insurance committee, says growers are shifting towards crops requiring less water as orchard profitability declines.
Limited irrigation water and unreliable electricity supplies are complicating irrigation planning. Growers warn that the next season could also be affected.
Delays in crop insurance assessments and compensation are adding financial pressure. Khapre has also called for insurance coverage against wildlife damage and a 100% government subsidy for protective fencing around farms.
Source - https://www.freshplaza.com
