For growers of the Banaganapalli variety in Andhra Pradesh, the start of this mango season is disappointing as the pests severely affect the crops. Estimates suggest that yields may drop by nearly 30% this year.
Banaganapalli mango is a favorite among mango lovers and a major export in other states. Fruits are mainly grown in the Godavari region, which are well-known for their mass production.
In addition to Banaganapalli, the Totapuri varieties from Chittoor and Suvarnarekha are also grown in the area.
Farmers who raise Banaganapalli are facing difficult times. Suryanarayana, a businessman, said he owns a nine-acre mango orchard, most of which are grown from the Banaganapalli variety. However, crops are severely affected by pests. Despite efforts to spray pesticides, Suryanarayana fears that the treatment may not be enough to cope with pest infestations.
In the Eluru area, farmers were bothered by heavy rain and strong winds on April 5. More than 170 farmers have insured the mango crop and urged the government to release the insurance premiums to help them recover from the losses.
S. Ram Mohan, a horticultural official in Eluru District, confirmed that the Banaganapalli variety has been severely attacked by pests and that overall yields are expected to decrease.
