Kurnool:Banana prices have surged significantly in the region due to a bulge in demand because of a combination of factors such as festive season, auspicious months and wedding occasions.
At present, a dozen bananas is priced between Rs 50-60 in Kurnool and Nandyal markets, much to the delight of farmers. In the wholesale market, prices have increased from Rs 7,000 per tonne to Rs 16,000-20,000 per tonne based on variety.
Horticulture crop area in the region has expanded from 1.10 lakh hectares to 1.17 lakh hectares including fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers. Major fruit crops such as mango, banana, sweet orange, pomegranate and guava are grown over approximately 17,500 hectares.
Production of horticulture crops has also increased from 14 lakh metric tonnes (MTs) to 18 lakh MTs.
Recently, banana farmers faced losses due to low production and low prices. However, they are now receiving good prices due to a combination of factors such as Sravana month, festivals, and wedding season.
Before summer, the price of a tonne of bananas was Rs 7,000, but now, depending on the variety, green bananas are priced at Rs 16,000 per tonne while Sugandha bananas sell at Rs 22,000 per tonne.
Last year, during this season, bananas cost Rs 25 to Rs 35 per dozen whereas they are priced at Rs 50 to Rs 60 now. Sugandha and green banana varieties are primarily cultivated in both districts.
“The price of bananas tends to fall when they are harvested as was the case last year. Even with a good yield, we only managed to recover our investment without significant profit. If the current price levels continue when the crop is ready this year, we can achieve good profits,” said A. Maddileti from Pathikonda area.
Horticulture officials note that bananas are currently in high demand. Since it is the season, bananas are fetching a competitive price. With lower crop production this time around, demand has increased, driving up the price.
