NT Reporter
Bicholim
Areca nut farmers, particularly from Bicholim and Sattari, are facing heavy losses this year due to premature nut drop, with estimates suggesting a 40-50 percent fall in yield. Continuous rain and adverse climatic conditions have severely affected the ripening process, leaving farmers anxious about their future.
A retired deputy director of agriculture and farmer from Netravali, Sanguem, said that improper plucking leads to fungal growth, which contributes to the problem. “Unseasonal rains and bad weather conditions are also major factors,” he said.
Despite spraying insecticides such as Fyton and Bio-Fyte, farmers report continued nut drop.
Gusty winds and cyclones have also uprooted trees, adding to the damage. Mahadev Govekar, a farmer, said his usual yield of 600-700 kg has fallen by 45-50 per cent this year. “We don’t receive compensation for losses due to these natural disasters. The government should provide a support price for areca nuts,” he said.
Farmers are demanding a minimum price of Rs 450 per kg to sustain their livelihoods amid rising labour costs and the shortage of pluckers. “With ongoing challenges and heavy losses, the government’s support is crucial for our survival,” said Suresh Nigalye from Savoi-Verem.
Farmers have urged the authorities to provide timely financial assistance to ensure the future of areca nut cultivation in Goa.
