Banana farmers made it rich

The initiative of the Department of Horticulture seems to produce results.

The Banana Value Chain Development Program is clearly contributing to the stabilization of prices if the data available from 2018-19 are any indication.

According to the information, this program is benefiting farmers, especially small and marginal farmers in the state.

More than 1.30 lakh farmers are engaged in banana cultivation. Of them, more than 80% are small and marginal farmers who own less than one acre or land between 2 acres and 3 acres. The total banana production in the state is 63.84 lakh tonnes.

“Before the implementation of the project, farmers in Anantapur and Kadapa districts used to sell their produce in informal markets. They used to earn less than fair value, ”says Chiranjeev Chaudhary, horticulture commissioner.

“The price per kilogram in the domestic market was between 6.40 and rang 8.50 during November-March 2017-18. It is between ₹ 7 and ₹ 13 during November-March 2020-21. Farmers’ incomes in the project area have risen sharply, and prices have also stabilized due to the commencement of exports and quality production, ”says Mr. Chaudhary.

He said that every year, due to fluctuations in prices, farmers are suffering in spite of the quality.

To overcome the problem, the department has introduced major banana exporters of the country such as INI-Farms Pvt Ltd, DESAI Fruit & Vegetables Pvt. Has initiated value chain development at all stages to improve production, productivity and quality. Ltd. and Mahindra Agri Solutions Ltd. in Anantapur, Kadapa and Kurnool districts.

Farmers are happy with the changes in production practices such as fruit-care activities and post-harvest infrastructure, such as mobile pack houses and integrated houses. The department is also taking responsibility of issuing phytosanetic certificate. In addition, the department is providing skill development programs in harvesting crops to rural youth, and handling and packaging to create employment opportunities in banana clusters, they point out.

The value chain approach has resulted in significant positive socio-economic impact of individual farmers, he says.

The crop of Andhra Pradesh is the most preferred option in the Middle-East. Exports are also picking up. Last year, three export companies exported bananas from the state. He said that more than 10 companies are joining during the current year.