September 09, 2025 | Deccan Chronicle |
Papaya farmers in Andhra Pradesh’s Rayalaseema region, known as the “fruit bowl” of the state, are suffering severe losses due to a steep fall in prices. Once sold for up to Rs 60 per kilogram in northern Indian markets, papayas from the Anantapur region now fetch as little as Rs 9 per kilo locally. Traders attribute the price crash to oversupply, erratic weather, and reduced exports to northern states, which traditionally absorb large volumes of fruit.
Market disruptions and transportation challenges for perishable produce have further aggravated the situation, leading to a surplus in local markets. Andhra Pradesh, a major contributor to India’s papaya output, produces fruit year-round, often exceeding domestic and export demand.
Small and marginal farmers, lacking adequate cold storage and refrigerated transport, are most affected, facing significant income losses. Experts emphasize the need for improved post-harvest infrastructure and weather-based price forecasting systems to stabilize farmer earnings.
Local officials, including district collectors Vinod Kumar and Cherukuri Sridhar, have urged traders to maintain fair purchase prices, setting Rs 9 per kilogram as a minimum threshold. Farmers in Annamayya district continue to protest, demanding stronger government intervention to prevent further economic distress.
