Mango prices crash in Sattari amid bumper harvest, favourable weather this season

VALPOI

A bumper mango harvest this season has triggered a sharp decline in prices, leaving growers seeking better market access and fair returns. Farmers have urged the government to step in immediately and formulate a comprehensive marketing policy to support producers.

Favourable weather conditions have led to an abundant yield, with mangoes now approaching full ripening. However, the absence of adequate marketing channels has created serious challenges for growers, who fear heavy financial losses if timely measures are not implemented.

Farmers have specifically called on agriculture authorities to establish cold storage facilities to help stabilise prices and minimise post-harvest losses. Without such infrastructure, they warn that a large portion of the produce could go to waste.

According to available information, Sattari taluka—particularly the Mankhula region—has recorded high production of popular varieties such as Kesar, Ratna, Amrapali and Alphonso (Hapus). While sales are expected to commence within the next week, uncertainty over market demand continues to weigh heavily on producers.

Producers claim that middlemen are taking advantage of the situation by purchasing mangoes at extremely low rates and selling them at significantly higher prices. This, they say, has resulted in substantial financial losses and denial of fair returns.

They have also criticised authorities for failing to address the issue, alleging neglect of farmer welfare. There is an increasing demand for the Agriculture Department to introduce a structured and transparent marketing system.

Growers have pointed out that neighbouring states like Maharashtra have stronger post-harvest management systems in place. In contrast, they argue that Goa’s agricultural focus remains largely limited to cultivation, with insufficient emphasis on storage, processing and marketing.

Farmers are demanding the establishment of cold storage facilities, along with procurement mechanisms through government agencies or horticulture corporations. Such measures, they believe, would ensure better price realisation and reduce dependence on intermediaries.

They have urged the government to act swiftly and implement effective safeguards to protect the interests of mango producers.