Over 1,000 banana farmers in Kalaburagidistrict are reeling under the pressure of plummeting market prices, compounded by financial losses and mounting debts. Banana cultivation, which demands significant investment and year-long dedication, has become unprofitable as prices dropped from $22-24 per ton in September-October to just $12-15 in December-January, making it difficult for farmers to recover their costs.
Afzalpur taluk, a major banana-growing region, faces additional hurdles due to declining groundwater levels caused by insufficient rainfall. Farmers like Chandrashekhar and Ramappa from Karajagi village are grappling with the double blow of reduced prices and labor shortages, as many workers migrate to cities in neighboring Maharashtra for better wages.
Farmers are calling for urgent government intervention to mitigate their struggles. Suggested measures include price support schemes, free banana saplings, and the involvement of government-run Hopcoms to ensure stable purchases. Arjun Somjal, a former APMC director, emphasized the need for financial assistance in the state budget to secure the future of banana farming in the region.
With the sustainability of banana cultivation at stake, farmers hope for immediate relief to navigate these challenging times.
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