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The Hindu
10 hours ago
- Business
- The Hindu
Why are mangoes covered with fruit bags? How much do they cost?
Farmers in Telangana are embracing a technique — fruit bagging — to protect and enhance quality of mangoes. These specially designed double-layered bags, with a brown or beige outer layer and a black inner layer, cost around ₹2 to ₹2.5 each. They are proving to be a game changer as they keep away fruit flies, ensure a blemish-free, uniformly coloured mangoes, and reduce the need for pesticides — a major concern for consumers. A farmer from Mahabubnagar, Muralidhar Reddy, who exports mangoes said: 'I was specifically asked by an exporter if the batch of mangoes being sent were bagged'. In India, 'King of fruits' are mainly cultivated in States like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Bihar, and Gujarat. What damages mangoes? According to the Fruit Research Station (FRS) in Sangareddy, the mango crop is vulnerable to fruit flies, unseasonal rains, increased humidity and other changes in temperature. Fruit flies lay their eggs in the flesh, and when the eggs hatch, the larvae eat the flesh causing significant damage to the fruit. To prevent this damage, farmers commonly use pesticides. How are fruit bags useful? Information from the Centre highlights how the bagging technique is a safer and sustainable alternative as it protects the mango crop from insects such as mango hoppers and fruit flies, and the vagaries of weather — heat, wind and rain. The bags prevent pesticides from coming in contact with the fruit and allows the fruit to grow without any spots or marks making it ideal for exports. The bagging technique is effective on mango varieties such as Banginapalli, Himayat, Kesar, and Daseri. However it is not suitable for all varieties of mangoes. Senior scientist and head of the FRC, V. Suchitra said that for varieties such as Suvarnarekha and Tommy Atkins, the bagging technique is counterproductive. 'For these varieties, the bags must be removed around a week to 10 days before harvesting.' Ms. Suchitra also highlights that without inspection of the mangoes the bagging technique should not be used. She said: 'The fruits must first be checked for signs of infestation.' She warns that covering infested fruits can worsen the problem as was observed in Jagtial. Bags distributed in Mahabubnagar This year, under the Cluster Development Programme, fruit bags were distributed to farmers in Mahabubnagar at subsidised rates. Telangana Horticulture and Sericulture department, Director, Shaik Yasmeen Basha said that the distribution of fruit bags to mango farmers will be expanded to other districts in the coming months. Timing for bagging the fruit K. Venugopal, District Horticulture and Sericulture officer (Mahabubnagar) said that timing is very important when using the bagging technique. The ideal stage for bagging is when the fruit is 3 cm in diametre. The centre's information manual details the height at which the bags have to be tied and sealed. Mr. Venugopal highlighted that Himayat mangoes (mature but unripe) that were not bagged, were green in colour, whereas the fruits that were bagged were golden yellow in colour.


Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
High prices of Dussehri, Langra likely to come down by June 15
Jaipur: The beloved Dussehri and Langra varieties of mangoes are selling at higher prices this season due to low yield this year. However, wholesale dealers at Muhana Mandi say these varieties are expected to see a dip in prices from June 15 onwards. According to wholesale fruit traders at Muhana Mandi, most of the varieties of mangoes have now arrived in the market, including Safeda, Langra, Dussehri, Kesar, Fazali, Totapuri, and Alphonso. "We are getting Dussehri from Rampur, Hathras, Lucknow, and Meerut. Compared to 2024, the supply is less. When we enquired, we were told that yield of Dussehri and Langra varieties has been less this year," said Aabid Rehman, a wholesale dealer at Muhana Mandi. He added that several factors, including abrupt weather conditions during May and ageing trees, are behind the low yield of mangoes this year. "Dussehri is available at Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg in the wholesale market, but in the retail market it is being sold at Rs 120 to Rs 150 per kg. Last year, prices of Dushehri in May were between Rs 80 to Rs 120 per kg in retail," said Mahesh Hardasani, a wholesale dealer of fruits. Hardasani added that Langra is available at Rs 50 to Rs 60 per kg in wholesale market and in retail between Rs 120 and Rs 150 per kg. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Costco Shoppers Say This Wrinkle Cream Is "Actually Worth It" The Skincare Magazine Undo Wholesale traders said they were expecting a better supply by the second week of June. "By then, we will start getting Dussehri and Langra varieties from almost every part of Uttar Pradesh. Also, in orchards where mangoes are not yet ready, they would be ready by then," said Ramesh Saini, a dealer.


News18
5 days ago
- General
- News18
Mangoes Of India: From Alphonso To Dasheri, Exploring Varieties Of Country's Most Loved Fruit
1/10 Summer in India means one thing-mango season is here. From north to south, discover the country's most beloved mango varieties. Mangoes are cultivated in almost every state of India, with Uttar Pradesh leading in the production. Here's the state-wise data of production. Originating from Malihabad in Uttar Pradesh, Dasheri mangoes are known for their sweet aroma and fiberless pulp. Meanwhile, Kesar mangoes are prized for their bright orange pulp and naturally sweet, saffron-like flavour.


News18
6 days ago
- Health
- News18
World Milk Day 2025: 5 Versatile Uses Of Milk That Will Surprise You
Last Updated: Milk's versatility knows no bounds as it serves a multitude of purposes from enhancing culinary creations to boosting beauty routines Every year on June 1, the world raises a toast to milk, one of the most essential and universal foods, by celebrating World Milk Day. In India, where milk is more than just a beverage—it's part of our heritage, health, and household routine—there's no better occasion to reiterate the ways milk can enrich our lives. From being a key ingredient in various recipes to serving beauty enhancer, milk's uses go beyond just drinking, Godrej Jersey uncovers different ways milk can be utilized effectively. Nourishing Breakfast Start your day right by enjoying a nutritious breakfast with milk as the star. Whip up a batch of creamy yogurt using milk as the base, adding fruits and nuts for extra flavour and texture. Flavoured Milk, available in delightful Badam, Kesar, and Rose flavours, makes for a refreshing morning beverage that's healthier than carbonated drinks. According to Godrej Jersey Milk report, 50% of the Indians are willing to increase animal milk consumption if it is flavoured! This on-the-go beverage satisfies your taste buds while providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. Sumptuous Desserts Milk forms the foundation of delectable desserts like ice cream, pudding, and hot chocolate. Indulge in creamy ice milk made from chilled milk, sugar, and your favourite flavourings. Create velvety pudding by simmering milk with cornstarch and adding flavourings like vanilla or chocolate. For a comforting treat, whip up a mug of hot chocolate using rich, creamy milk. Enhancing the dishes After intense physical activity, the body's energy stores become depleted, and muscles may experience micro-tears and inflammation. Milk is an optimal choice for post-workout recovery due to its nutrient composition. It contains carbohydrates, which replenish glycogen stores, essential for energy recovery. Additionally, milk provides high-quality proteins that support muscle repair and growth Mood and Sleep Regulator A warm glass of milk before bed is a comforting ritual passed down through generations, but its benefits go beyond nostalgia. Milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that the body uses to produce serotonin and melatonin—two key hormones involved in regulating mood and sleep cycles. In the era of hustle culture, screen fatigue, and rising anxiety levels, especially among urban millennials and Gen Z, many are turning to natural, non-habit-forming remedies to unwind. A warm cup of milk—sometimes enhanced with turmeric, nutmeg, or even ashwagandha—has become a popular choice. As proven by the Godrej Jersey Milk Report, two-thirds of Indians consider milk an effective mood uplifter, reaffirming its role not just as a health drink, but as a source of emotional comfort and calm. Milk's versatility knows no bounds as it serves a multitude of purposes from enhancing culinary creations to boosting beauty routines. Incorporate this multifaceted ingredient into your daily life and embrace the endless possibilities and mysteries of milk, discovering its vast potential in enriching various aspects of your routine.


The Hindu
6 days ago
- Climate
- The Hindu
Early monsoon in Telangana not to have impact on mangoes as 90% harvested
The arrival of monsoon two weeks earlier than the usual date in Telangana might not have a significant impact on the overall mango production in the State as majority of the fruits are already collected. Director of Telangana Horticulture and Sericulture Shaik Yasmeen Basha said that around 90% of mangoes have been harvested. Generally, in the second part of May, varieties such as Kesar, Banganapalli and Himayat are harvested. Officials of the Horticulture department said that some farmers, who had taken land on lease, would not want to lose the investment. In such conditions, when summer is interspersed with rain and more are expected, they opt for early harvest. District Horticulture and Sericulture Officer (Jagtial) G. Shyam Prasad said that late flowering of trees also pushes the time fruits are gathered. Of the 3.06 lakh acres of mango orchards in Telangana in 2024-25, the highest is in Jagtial: 37,38,000 acres. Mr. Prasad said that 80% of mangoes cultivated in the district are 'Benishan', which are harvested from late March to May-end. The tree flowers multiple times, and the farmers whose trees flower early get relatively more profits. Benishan is one of the favourites in northern India. Traders from there rent flats in Jagtial during the harvest season to coordinate the export of the fruits. This ensures that the fruit is not left unsold. The fruits harvested in June first week or later are usually priced more. A few farmers are hoping the rains will subside and waiting to harvest the fruits in the coming days.