The Hindu Business Line : Poor demand for banana despite low rates

THE steep fall in the banana ratesdoes not seem to attract buyers. A bunch of Poovan, for example, is currently quoting at Rs 60 as against the (perceived) normal rate of Rs 100.

Trade sources do not foresee any significant rise in the rates as of now. They, however, have not ruled out a marginal increase in the price levels around mid-January.

"The rate run down could be because of the falling weight of the bunch," say researchers.

Speaking to Business Line, the Director of the Tiruchy-based National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB), Dr Sathiamoorthy, said the leaf-spot disease was widely prevalent in all banana fields, affecting the plant's yield potential. "The growers have been alerted. We have asked them to remove the affected leaves to control the menace and prevent further spread. Unless they follow our instructions meticulously, it will be difficult to bail them out of the present imbroglio," he said.

The Poovan variety has been found to be most susceptible to the leaf-spot, though varieties such as Robusta and Grand Nai have not been spared.

Growers have reported insufficient fruit filling and uneven ripening of the bunch leading to peel splitting of mature fruits. This has led to poor price realisation.

The leaf-spot disease incidence is said to be widely prevalent. According to Dr Sathiamoorthy, there were varying types of the leaf-spot, each requiring special attention.

To a question on area, he said Poovan and Nei Poovan was raised in about 10,000 acres, but the area under Poovan was gradually declining. It is expected to dwindle further, he added.

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