Unprecedented low level of rainfall in Eastern India might have added many wrinkles on the forehead of all inthe agri arena there. But Mango farmers are finding it as highly favourable and expecting high output in 2016, the year earlier expected to be a low yielding one, traditionally known as 'Off year.'
As per Indian meteorological record, Entire Eastern zone comprising Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal or NE region has witnessed 20% to 59% lower than normal rainfall during 1st Jan to 24th Feb period. For sub Himalayan West Bengal region, the downfall recorded even lower at 60%- 90%. Relative humidity has also dipped even lower than 45% at some places.
"It may be bad for other crops. But we find it favourable for Mango," said Mr. U. Saha, President Maldaha Mango Merchants Association. Maldaha and adjoining districts in West Bengal form one of the largest mango yielding regions of the country producing around 5 lakh metric ton or near 5% of India's national yield. Eventually, local economy of the whole industrially deprived region is highly dependent on Mango.
"Flowering of mango takes place till first week of March and low rainfall during this period is good for the soft flowers to remain attached to inflorescence," said Prof. A. Chaudhury, DEAN, North Bengal Agriculture University. In addition, "Low humidity at this season has also kept attack of common disease like Anthracnose under controllable limit," said experts.
"Though as per traditional trend, after high yielding 'On Year' 2015, this 2016 was expected to be a low yielding 'Off Year.' But it is likely to break the tradition and become 'On Year' with an output of around 3 lakh Metric Ton from Maldaha alone," said Mr. Saha.
However, "The situation can take a serious negative turn if it does not rain after mid-March. Because too lowhumidity in soil and air can seriously retard transformation of flowers into baby fruits. In addition, this juicy fruit demands high level of water supply for proper growth. The farmers must remain prepared," said Prof. Chaudhury giving a caution.
As per Indian meteorological record, Entire Eastern zone comprising Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal or NE region has witnessed 20% to 59% lower than normal rainfall during 1st Jan to 24th Feb period. For sub Himalayan West Bengal region, the downfall recorded even lower at 60%- 90%. Relative humidity has also dipped even lower than 45% at some places.
"It may be bad for other crops. But we find it favourable for Mango," said Mr. U. Saha, President Maldaha Mango Merchants Association. Maldaha and adjoining districts in West Bengal form one of the largest mango yielding regions of the country producing around 5 lakh metric ton or near 5% of India's national yield. Eventually, local economy of the whole industrially deprived region is highly dependent on Mango.
"Flowering of mango takes place till first week of March and low rainfall during this period is good for the soft flowers to remain attached to inflorescence," said Prof. A. Chaudhury, DEAN, North Bengal Agriculture University. In addition, "Low humidity at this season has also kept attack of common disease like Anthracnose under controllable limit," said experts.
"Though as per traditional trend, after high yielding 'On Year' 2015, this 2016 was expected to be a low yielding 'Off Year.' But it is likely to break the tradition and become 'On Year' with an output of around 3 lakh Metric Ton from Maldaha alone," said Mr. Saha.
However, "The situation can take a serious negative turn if it does not rain after mid-March. Because too lowhumidity in soil and air can seriously retard transformation of flowers into baby fruits. In addition, this juicy fruit demands high level of water supply for proper growth. The farmers must remain prepared," said Prof. Chaudhury giving a caution.