Kesar mango farmers demand relief

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar region, the second-largest mango producing belt, has demanded compensation after extensive damage to mango crops, especially Kesar mango orchards.

Marathwada, a key contributor to Kesar mango production, recorded a total output of 80,830.01 metric tonnes, but farmers have suffered repeated losses due to storms, strong winds and hailstorms. This year, unseasonal rain and hailstorms have caused an estimated 70–75% damage to Kesar mango orchards,the main fruit crop in the region. Farmers said the losses have not been adequately addressed by the government. The Mango Growers Association, Aurangabad, along with the Mahakesar Mango Growers Association, has demanded an official survey of the damage and sought Rs 25,000 per hectare compensation for affected farmers, urging immediate relief for repeated crop losses.

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Production of Mango in Marathwada Region

District/Mango Production (MT)

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar/17350

Jalna/2240.1

Beed/11623.41

Latur/13800

Dharashiv/25970

Nanded/6104

Parbhani/2452.50

Hingoli/1290

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Marathwada Mango compensation demand

“We have submitted a letter to the Chief Minister seeking compensation for mango growers in Marathwada. While Konkan farmers are being given Rs 22,000 per hectare subsidy, the GR is still awaited. We demand an official damage survey and equal compensation for Kesar mango growers in Marathwada,” adv Vasant Deshmukh Joint Secretary & Coordinator, Mango Growers Association told Lokmat Times.