Mounting losses force farmers in Karnataka’s Kolar district to chop down mango trees
Farmers in Karnataka's Kolar district are resorting to chopping down their mango trees due to significant financial losses incurred over the past three years. The inability to cultivate other crops under the mango trees' shade further exacerbates their economic distress, forcing them to switch to alternative crops like ragi or vegetables.
Why it matters
This situation highlights the severe impact of climate change, market fluctuations, and agricultural challenges on farmers' livelihoods, particularly in regions heavily reliant on specific crops. It underscores the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices, crop diversification, and government support to prevent farmer distress and ensure food security.
Following huge losses incurred from the past three years, farmers in Kolar district have started chopping down old and new mango trees on their farmlands.
The farmers said that while they incurred losses growing mangoes on the one hand, they were unable to cultivate other crops along with mango trees as the sunlight does not reach the crops due to shade. Thus, they are unable to diversify as well.
Kolar district accounts for around 60% of the State’s total mango cultivation. Around 42,000 to 45,000 hectares here is dedicated only for mango cultivation.
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