Mango Output Falls 15-20% in Maharashtra

The Maharashtra State Mango Growers Association (MSMGA) has appealed to the government for support as mango production in the state has declined by 15-20% this year.

This decrease in production, combined with export hurdles and inadequate marketing infrastructure, has resulted in significant losses for farmers. Normally, around 15% of the mango crop is exported, with a substantial portion going to Middle Eastern countries. However, geopolitical tensions have disrupted these exports, further exacerbating the difficulties faced by farmers.

Despite these challenges, mango exports worth over ₹350 crore were recorded this year. MSMGA President Chandrakant Mokal highlighted the struggles of farmers, who are already dealing with the adverse effects of climate change and high cultivation costs. The lack of proper marketing infrastructure is also leading to additional losses for farmers.

The MSMGA recently organized an Agriculture, Horticulture, Irrigation and Processing conference at the NSE in Mumbai, which included the Siddheshwar Agrotech Exhibition. The event coincided with Punnyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar's memorial day and International Woman Farmers Year (IWFY 2026). One of the primary objectives of the conference was to provide farmers with better marketing facilities.

The conference also addressed the problems faced by agriculture and horticulture producers when dealing with export agencies. Kumar Anshuman, General Manager of ECGC, was invited to guide participants on how ECGC insurance could help safeguard farmers' interests. Tirthankar Patnaik, Chief Economist of NSE, attended the program as the Chief Guest.

Other notable invitees included B. Narayan, President of Procurement and Projects at Reliance Industries Ltd, and Dr. P.K. Shukla, President of Pidilite Industries Ltd. An exhibition highlighting financial schemes of the State and Central governments and nationalized banks was also organized. Digital presentations were made by the State Bank of India and representatives from Meghmani Industries Ltd and Universal Agricon Ltd.

Progressive farmers, farmers' groups, and FPOs/FPCs were felicitated during the event. The conference aimed to find solutions to the challenges faced by mango growers and to provide them with the necessary support to overcome these difficulties.

The decline in mango production and the subsequent losses for farmers are significant concerns for the agricultural sector in Maharashtra. The state government's support and initiatives to improve marketing infrastructure and facilitate exports could play a crucial role in mitigating these losses and ensuring the sustainability of mango farming in the region.

In conclusion, the Maharashtra State Mango Growers Association's appeal for government support highlights the need for urgent attention to the challenges faced by mango farmers in the state. By addressing these issues and providing the necessary support, the government can help ensure the long-term viability of the mango farming industry in Maharashtra.