View: Global warming and monsoons have affected mango-production

Indian summers are tortuous. But two life-affirming things make it bearable: the promise of good southwest monsoons and mangoes. Unfortunately, one can’t take either for granted in this climate-hit era. This year, the monsoon arrived unfashionably a week late, reaching Kerala on June 8. The mango story, however, looks like bad news. Uttar Pradesh accounts for 23% (48 lakh tonnes) of India’s total mango production (279 lakh tonnes), making it the largest mango-producing state of the largest mango-producing country. But there could be a substantial dip in output this year. The sudden rise in February-March temperatures and below-normal temperatures in April have affected fruit growth. Average crop damage, which used to be around 10%, may go up to 30-40%.

Konkan mangoes, including the Alphonso, have seen a sharp decline in production. Farmers blame unseasonal rainfall, heatwaves and pest attacks. The dip in production has led to a spike in prices. Alphonso prices have soared by up to 100%, from ₹500-600 for 12 mangoes to ₹1,200. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that climate change’s impact on agricultural products is a clear and present danger. Last year, early summers and heatwave conditions shrivelled up India’s wheat harvest.

GoI is reportedly initiating steps to climate-proof farmlands and farmers. Last year, it conducted field trials of 177 varieties for climate extremes. The agriculture ministry also has reportedly set up a District Agricultural Contingency Plan for 650 districts to mitigate the impact of weather-related challenges. While these are climate-positive steps, these new varieties must reach farmers quickly to improve their hazard-coping capacity, along with training and timely information on weather and scientific advancements. Also, public spending on irrigation, extension services, rural infrastructure, sustainable farming and crop diversification must be increased. Without these measures, India will keep facing frequent farm shocks.