Garlic Crisis Grips Himachal: Farmers Face Crushing Price Plunge
Sirmaur district’s garlic farmers are battling a severe price crash, witnessing a drastic fall from Rs 110-255 per kg to a mere Rs 25-70 per kg. This unprecedented slump threatens to wipe out their livelihoods and inflict significant financial losses.
The approaching monsoon season adds to their woes. Stored garlic is at risk of spoilage and germination, further diminishing its value and leaving farmers with heaps of unsaleable produce. The weight loss during storage exacerbates the problem.
This crisis impacts a substantial sector. The annual garlic trade in the region is valued at approximately Rs 1,000 crore, highlighting the scale of the potential economic damage.
Farmers are now desperately appealing to the Himachal Pradesh government for urgent intervention. They seek immediate support measures to alleviate their financial distress and prevent widespread economic hardship amongst the farming community. The government’s response will be crucial in determining the future of this vital agricultural sector and the livelihoods of thousands of families. The situation underscores the vulnerability of farmers to market fluctuations and the need for robust support systems.
