Tomato glut tests Rayalaseema farmers as supply surges

Of the total arrivals, 5,564 metric tonnes were first-grade produce, while 6,650 metric tonnes belonged to the second-grade category. Officials said prices varied across markets depending largely on quality and demand rather than supply alone. 

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Every tomato season tells a different story in Rayalaseema. Some years, farmers celebrate soaring prices as demand outpaces supply. In others, bumper harvests flood the markets, leaving growers worried about falling returns. This season appears to be a mix of both, with record arrivals, fluctuating prices and political sparring over the actual market situation.According to the State Agricultural Marketing Department, 12,215 metric tonnes of tomatoes arrived at Rayalaseema markets in a single day, reflecting peak harvesting activity.

Of the total arrivals, 5,564 metric tonnes were first-grade produce, while 6,650 metric tonnes belonged to the second-grade category. Officials said prices varied across markets depending largely on quality and demand rather than supply alone. The season has also been affected by erratic weather, which has impacted fruit quality. Many consignments reaching markets are carrying black spots and fall under fair-quality grades, making traders reluctant to pay premium prices.

Marketing officials have advised farmers to grade tomatoes carefully before bringing them to market, saying quality continues to determine returns. While Mulakalacheruvu has entered the peak marketing season with prices dictated by daily demand and supply, Kalikiri has witnessed relatively better prices due to stronger demand from outside the region. Large quantities of tomatoes are also arriving from Karnataka, Chittoor and Himachal Pradesh, increasing overall availability in wholesale markets.

The issue has meanwhile acquired a political dimension. Agriculture and Marketing Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu rejected allegations that farmers are receiving only Rs 2 per kilogram, describing such claims as misleading and politically motivated. He said the current average price in Andhra Pradesh stands at Rs 10.55 per kg, with Madanapalle recording around Rs11 per kg, while prices across markets range between Rs 6 and Rs 16 per kg depending on quality and location.

The Minister also disputed reports of exceptionally high arrivals at the Raptadu market, stating that no tomato arrivals were recorded there on the day in question. To support growers and stabilize the market, he said the government has procured 261 tonnes of tomatoes since July 5 and is selling them through Rythu Bazaars on a no-loss, no-profit basis. With tomato arrivals expected to remain high over the coming weeks, officials say market conditions will continue to be monitored closely. For farmers, however, the lesson remains unchanged: in a season of abundant harvests, quality not just quantity will determine profitability.