Amaravati, December 09, 2025: Banana growers in Nellore district reel from a brutal double blow: trader cartels driving down buy rates to Rs 7 per kg for Bangla variety and Rs 10 for Amruthapani and green types, while market prices hover at Rs 40-50 per kg. On top, the Panama virus spreads unchecked, stunting fruit growth and slashing yields despite heavy pesticide use.
Cultivation covers 3,710 acres across mandals like Indukurupeta and Muthukur, with per-acre investments nearing Rs 1 lakh. Farmer T. Sukumar lost Rs 40,000 on two acres alone, blasting officials for ignoring price supports. Horticulture teams face heat for inaction on disease control.
