Gir (Gujarat): Cyclone Tauktae, that ravaged the Western coast of India, has had a devastating effect on Kesar Mango (a popular variety) orchards in the Gir region. According to an estimate, the damage caused to mango orchards here is pegged at Rs 100 crore, the highest in two decades.
Farmers here had anticipated a low production of Kesar Mangoes this year. Going by the demand and supply equation, they were upbeat that their produce would fetch them good dividends as the demand for Kesar Mangoes is high and the supply this year was likely to be low. However, the cyclone has shattered all their hopes. They have now been vociferously demanding the government to cover horticulture and its produce under crop insurance.
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Farmers from Gir said the impact of the cyclone is such that the loss incurred this year cannot be compensated for in the next few years. In addition to extending the insurance cover for Kesar Mangoes, they also demanded that the central and the state governments announce some relief on an immediate basis.
