Karnataka Banana Farmers Struggle as Frosty Winter Wipes Out 25% of Crops, Prices Plummet by 39%

21 January 2025, New Delhi: Banana farmers in Karnataka are grappling with severe losses this winter as plunging temperatures wreak havoc on their crops. With the mercury dropping below 12 degrees Celsius, over 25% of early-stage banana crops have been damaged, severely affecting the state’s agricultural economy. Karnataka, India’s third-largest banana producer after Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra, cultivates the fruit across approximately 108,000 hectares, with a total production of 2,973,000 metric tonnes recorded in 2023-24. Major banana varieties like Cavendish and Yalakki, grown predominantly in Chikkamagaluru and Mysuru, have shown significant discoloration and quality deterioration due to the extreme cold. This has not only hindered exports but also caused a steep decline in local market prices.

Experts and farmers have raised concerns about the susceptibility of banana crops to cold weather, especially in soils deficient in critical micronutrients like zinc and boron. Over the past four months, the price of Cavendish bananas has plummeted from $22.50 to $13.75 per quintal, leaving farmers in financial distress. In contrast, Andhra Pradesh has reported fewer losses due to soil conditions that offer some protection against the cold. As the farming community reels under these challenges, they are urging the government to provide immediate support through crop protection strategies, pricing assistance, and guidance on addressing nutrient deficiencies. The situation underscores the recurring impact of cold weather on banana cultivation, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions to protect farmers’ livelihoods.

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