Across India, the election period is positively impacting pineapple farmers with an increase in demand and prices reaching ₹60 per kg, a significant rise from last year's ₹48. This surge is particularly noticeable in Telangana, Maharashtra, and the western regions, coinciding with election activities. The consumption of pineapple, alongside watermelon, is recommended for hydration during the hot season, a practice endorsed by Baby John, the president of Pineapple Growers Association Keralam. Additionally, the ongoing IPL season is contributing to the heightened demand. Pineapple, a fruit integral to Indian cuisine and festivities, is widely utilized by caterers. Vazhakulam, known as India's largest pineapple market, distributes the GI tagged fruit nationwide.
However, production challenges are emerging due to increased temperatures in Kerala, leading to a significant drop in yield by over 50%, with current production at 800 tonnes compared to 2,000 tonnes in the previous year. This decline is complicating efforts to meet the robust demand during festival seasons. Moreover, the lack of summer rains has adversely affected the upcoming crop season, with many farmers unable to proceed with contract farming due to water scarcity. Despite some rainfall, the insufficient follow-up has hindered production recovery, escalating the cost of planting materials to ₹13 for each sucker.
[ ₹100 = €1.10 ]
Source: thehindubusinessline.com