Clouds of crisis over Ratnagiri’s white gold, cashew crop destroyed up to 70%, farmers on the verge of ruin – ..

News India Live, Digital Desk: A worrying news is coming out from the Konkan region of Maharashtra, which is known for its natural beauty and rich horticulture. Konkan’s ‘White Gold’ i.e. cashew is currently going through its worst phase. There has been a huge decline in cashew crop in Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts this year, due to which thousands of farmers have become worried.

Nature’s havoc: Unseasonal rain and heat took away the shine

It is being told that this year the changing weather patterns have badly affected the cashew plantations. In the beginning, when mohar (flowers) appeared on cashew trees, farmers were hopeful of a good yield. But sudden unseasonal rain, dense fog and then the scorching heat spoiled the game. According to agricultural experts, due to such fluctuations in temperature, the cashewnut crop has completely scorched.

Local farmers of Ratnagiri say that this year there is a possibility of reduction in production by about 65 to 70 percent. The cashews that are being prepared have deteriorated in quality due to insect attack.

Market prices are high, but farmers’ pockets are empty

The surprising thing is that while on one hand the prices of cashew nuts are reaching record levels in the market, on the other hand common farmers are not getting any benefit from it. The production is so low that it has become difficult for the farmers to even meet their costs. Due to increase in the cost of fertilizers, pesticides and labor, gardeners are becoming burdened with debt. Many farmers have now even expressed disillusionment with cashew farming.

Expecting compensation from the government: CM gave assurance

Seeing the seriousness of the matter, the Chief Minister has assured in the Assembly to provide major relief to the farmers of Konkan. The government has assured that the damage panchnama (survey) will be completed soon and a relief package will be announced for the affected farmers. Local public representatives have also demanded from the government that instructions should be issued to the insurance companies to give claims as soon as possible so that the farmers can get immediate financial assistance.