The livelihoods and harvests of mango growers in Rayalaseema, Andhra Pradesh, are in jeopardy due to climate change, unpredictable weather patterns, and emerging insect infestations. The area, well-known for producing mangoes, is seeing an early start to summer, erratic rainfall, and rising temperatures, all interfering with the cycles of flowering and fruiting. According to data and farmer reports, there have been significant crop losses this season, painting a bleak picture. Mango farmers struggle amid climate change and pest outbreaks, and the situation of farmers like B. Vasudeva Reddy, who saw his output drop to 20% despite an investment of Rs 4 lakh, highlights the urgent need for government assistance and adaptive measures as the state works to sustain its horticulture sector.

Impact of Climate Change on Mango Yields

Mango harvests in the Chittoor region are negatively impacted as mango farmers struggle amid climate change and pest outbreaks, with rising temperatures being a significant concern. Early flower drop was caused by unseasonable heat in February, and temperatures in March reached 40°C, significantly higher than the typical range of 35 to 36°C. When heat stress is coupled with unpredictable rainfall, including heavy 10-mm downpours and protracted dry spells, researchers from Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University observe that blooming is disrupted and fruit size is decreased. Consistent yields are difficult to achieve because of the agricultural cycle’s increased complexity due to the reduced diurnal temperature range and frequent heat waves. With barely 25% of his typical 20–25 tonnes expected, farmer G. Chinna Reddappa is facing financial pressure and may need to take out loans to sustain his family. In the meantime, after three years of insignificant profits, M. Janardhan Reddy has given up growing three acres of mangoes in favor of coconut. A possible move away from the region’s staple crop as climate issues worsen is indicated by this pattern, which is encouraging many farmers to reevaluate growing mangoes and some to look into alternatives like groundnut or paddy.

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Emerging Pests and Government Response

Mango producers in Chittoor are facing more difficulties due to introducing new pests, including the Brazilian Shoot Caterpillar, Litchi Looper, and black thrips, which are made worse by changing weather patterns. Farmers are carelessly using pesticides like cypermethrin and chlorpyrifos since these pests flourish in the changed climate. This puts pesticide residues at risk of being rejected by global markets. The horticulture department introduced a 2024 crop insurance policy to reduce losses; it offers Rs 35,000 per acre with a premium of Rs 1,700, but farmers are still ill-informed. Officials have established a price of Rs 12 per kg for totapuri mangoes, with the state subsidizing Rs 4, and are working to extend coverage till July. However, market stability is threatened by the faltering pulp sector, which is hindered by export barriers and a surplus of 150,000 tonnes of pulp. Farmers like Abdul Munaf are reluctant to invest because of this uncertainty and worry about the uncertain profits in an already unstable sector.

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