Cocoa farmers in Dakshina Kannada, who benefited from record prices last year, are now facing a significant setback as heavy monsoon rains have caused severe crop damage. Last year, prices soared to Rs 320 per kg, reviving farmer interest in cocoa cultivation. However, prices have since dropped to Rs 100 per kg, and this year’s excessive rains have compounded their troubles.
Farmers report that 60% of the crop has been lost due to blackening and drying, particularly during the flowering stage, with the damage resembling Koleroga, a disease caused by the Phytophthora fungus. This year’s losses are particularly severe, with large portions of the crop becoming unusable.
To combat the spread of the disease, experts advise burning infected plant parts and spraying Bordeaux mixture. Dr. Vinayaka Hegde of CPCRI emphasizes the need for early intervention to prevent fungal infections.
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