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L.N. Revathy

Coimbatore , Nov. 20

Sun or rain, grape cultivation seems to turn sour for the growers in this belt.

The monsoon dependent crop suffered some setback between 2002 and 2005 because of drought. The unexpected, unseasonal rain is said to have caused extensive damage to the crop this year.

Mr N. Manickam, Technical Adviser, Coimbatore District Grapes' Association, told Business Line that about 20 per cent of the crop area suffered extensive damage after the recent rains. Out of the 1,200-plus acre under grape, the crop was ready for harvest in close to 300 acre.

Muscat or Paneer variety is raised here. The duration of the crop is 18 months. However, after the first harvest, the growers harvest five crops in two years. The average yield is about 10-12 tonnes/acre. "This has, consequent to the recent downpour slipped almost by half to 6-7 tonne/acre and there is deterioration in fruit quality,'' he said.

"The daily arrivals have fallen to 15-25 tonnes against an inflow of 40 tonnes. Lower arrivals have not triggered the price of the produce. On the other hand, the rates have fallen to less than Rs 8/kg against the normal rate of Rs 12-15/kg.''

The crop is susceptible to pest attack such as the downy mildew in the initial stages and the powdery mildew in the ageing crop. "We have had no support from research institutions on such issues,'' he said.

To a query on bank support, Mr Manickam said until recently, Bank of India had extended finance support to the grape growers. "The last three years has been tough for most of us. We could not repay our loans. The bank has now withdrawn its support. Without support, we cannot survive,'' he added.

Recalling the significant expansion in area, he said, "Prior to 2002, grape was raised in just about 200 acres. The first crop cost would pinch the growers' pocket. He would have to expend about Rs 2 lakh/acre (exclusive of the drip irrigation cost). When Bank of India came forward to support us in this venture, the area swelled to 1,500 acres. But we were forced to uproot the plant in about 600 acres during the drought spell. There appears to be some come back signal, but everything depends on the bank and technology support. Farmers cannot do much on their own,'' Mr Manickam said.

More Stories on : Horticulture/Fruits & Vegetables | Climate & Weather | Tamil Nadu

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