Mon Mar 10 12:45:01 UTC 2025: ## Biodegradable Covers Offer Hope to Chittoor Mango Farmers Facing Crop Threat

**Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, March 10, 2025** – Mango farmers in Chittoor district are facing a challenging season due to delayed flowering and stunted fruit development affecting 1.7 lakh acres of orchards. To mitigate the damage, the district administration is implementing a two-pronged approach.

Firstly, awareness camps are being organized to educate farmers on the importance of providing adequate water to their trees to prevent flower withering and ensure fruit survival. This, officials say, will also help the ripening mangoes withstand strong winds expected in the coming months.

Secondly, the administration is distributing biodegradable covers to protect the fruit from extreme heat, discoloration, and damage from strong winds. Farmers will receive up to 10,000 covers each at a subsidized rate of ₹1 per cover (actual cost ₹2). Technical assistance is also being offered to farmers who require it.

While the overall mango crop is threatened, officials remain optimistic about the Punganur, Palamaner, and Kuppam regions, which are showing healthy flowering and fruit set. Furthermore, unlike some other regions in Andhra Pradesh, Chittoor is currently free from pest infestations. The district administration’s intervention aims to safeguard the mango harvest and support the livelihoods of local farmers.

Read More