Over the past two weeks, Pune’s Market Yard has witnessed an unprecedented influx of mangoes, particularly the popular Alphonso, Kesar, and Langda varieties. This surge is attributed to:
Favorable Weather Conditions: Consistent rainfall and optimal temperatures across Maharashtra’s mango belts have resulted in a bumper harvest.
Early and Synchronized Ripening: Many orchards experienced early and simultaneous ripening, leading to a glut in the market.
Improved Transportation: Efficient logistics have enabled faster movement of mangoes from farms to the city, ensuring that larger quantities reach the Market Yard daily.
As a result, wholesale prices have dropped by 30-40% compared to the previous month, with some varieties now selling at their lowest rates in years.
While consumers are enjoying affordable mangoes, many farmers are feeling the pinch. The sudden oversupply has:
Reduced Profit Margins: Lower prices mean smaller returns for growers, particularly those who invested heavily in crop management and transportation.
Increased Competition: With more sellers vying for buyers, smaller farmers are struggling to secure fair prices for their produce.
Post-Harvest Losses: The perishable nature of mangoes means that unsold stock can quickly spoil, leading to wastage and further financial losses.
Some farmer organizations have called for government intervention, such as minimum support prices or direct procurement, to help stabilize the market.
For Pune’s residents, the price drop has turned the Market Yard into a mango paradise. Households are buying in bulk, and local sweet shops and juice vendors are launching special offers on mango-based treats. The affordability has also made premium varieties accessible to a wider section of the population.
Market experts predict that:
Prices may remain low for the next few weeks as the supply glut continues.
Quality may fluctuate as late-season mangoes enter the market, so buyers should look for freshness and aroma.
Farmers may shift strategies, focusing on value-added products like pulp, jams, and pickles to offset losses from fresh fruit sales.
If the surplus persists, authorities may step in with relief measures or export incentives to support growers.
This year’s mango market highlights the delicate balance between supply, demand, and pricing in India’s agricultural sector. Experts suggest that:
Better crop planning and market forecasting can help prevent gluts.
Investment in processing and storage will enable farmers to manage surplus more effectively.
Consumer awareness campaigns can encourage responsible buying and reduce food waste.
