Jashpur Litchi production declines after erratic weather

Jashpurnagar | Correspondent: Litchi production in Chhattisgarh’s Jashpur district has declined this year due to erratic weather conditions during key growth stages, leading to poor fruit quality and reduced market inflow.

Farmers and agriculture officials say the main damage occurred in two phases. During January and February, when litchi trees were flowering, rainfall was required for proper fruit setting. Farmers with irrigation facilities managed by spraying water, but many small growers could not support their orchards, affecting early fruit development.

The second setback came between March and April, when frequent storms and unseasonal rains disrupted fruit growth. Normally, higher temperatures during April help develop sweetness in litchi, but this year cooler-than-usual weather led to sour-tasting fruit in many areas.

As a result, large quantities of litchis reaching local markets are not finding buyers. Traders say even at ₹20–₹30 per dozen, sour litchis remain unsold, forcing some farmers to take their produce back. However, litchis from areas like Duldula, Kunkuri, and Narayanpur are still selling due to better sweetness.

Farmers say this year’s yield has also been affected by the natural “alternate bearing” cycle of litchi, where production is lower every alternate year. Officials estimate an additional 20% drop in output due to unseasonal rainfall, over and above the usual seasonal fluctuation.

Jashpur had recorded around 5,000 metric tons of litchi production last year. However, this year’s total output is yet to be fully assessed, as harvesting continues in hilly regions.

While prices have not fallen drastically compared to last year’s peak season, farmers report reduced earnings due to lower quality and weak demand. Officials maintain that although profits have declined, cultivation remains marginally profitable for growers.