Nandurbar, Maharashtra: The chilli season in Nandurbar, known for its bustling chilli market, is likely to end earlier than usual this year due to a significant drop in production. Factors such as crop diseases, pest infestations, and excessive rainfall have led to a sharp decline in chilli yields. As a result, the market has recorded only 1.5 lakh quintals of chilli arrivals so far, a stark contrast to last year’s 3.5 lakh quintals.
Nandurbar’s Chilli Market Faces Unprecedented Shortfall
Nandurbar’s chilli market, one of the largest in Maharashtra, typically sees arrivals ranging between 2 to 4 lakh quintals annually. This year, however, the market has witnessed a drastic reduction in supply. By January last year, the market had already crossed the 2-lakh-quintal mark, but this year, the figure stands at just 1.5 lakh quintals. Market officials estimate that total arrivals may barely touch 2 lakh quintals, raising concerns among farmers and traders alike.
The decline in production is attributed to a combination of adverse weather conditions and crop diseases. Excessive rainfall, coupled with pest attacks, has severely impacted chilli yields across the district. Farmers in Shahada, Nandurbar, and Taloda talukas, which are major chilli-growing regions, have reported significant losses.
Stable Prices Offer Little Relief to Farmers
Despite the drop in production, chilli prices have remained stable, ranging between ₹2,500 to ₹4,200 per quintal, depending on the variety and quality. While farmers had hoped for a price surge due to reduced supply, the market has not seen any significant upward trend. Many farmers are now selling their produce at current rates to cut losses and avoid further risks.
Yogesh Amritkar, Secretary of the Nandurbar Market Committee, stated, “Although the season is shorter this year, arrivals are expected to continue for the next two months. Daily, over 200 vehicles bring chilli to the market, keeping the supply chain active.”
Crop Diseases and Pest Infestations Take a Toll
This year, chilli crops in Nandurbar were severely affected by fungal diseases and pest infestations. The district received 110-120% of its average rainfall, creating a humid environment conducive to the spread of crop diseases. Farmers struggled to manage the dual challenge of excessive moisture and pest attacks, leading to a 30-35% drop in production compared to previous years.
The early end to the chilli season has also impacted the local economy. The chilli market not only supports farmers but also provides employment to hundreds of laborers involved in processing and transportation. With reduced arrivals, the economic activity generated by the market has taken a hit.(Nandurbar News)
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As the chilli season winds down, farmers and market officials are hopeful for better conditions in the coming year. Efforts to improve crop management practices and mitigate the impact of pests and diseases will be crucial to reviving production levels.
For now, the focus remains on maximizing returns from the current season. With stable prices and steady demand, farmers are cautiously optimistic about recovering some of their losses. However, the unprecedented challenges faced this year serve as a reminder of the vulnerabilities in agricultural production and the need for resilient farming practices