Tomato Prices Rise to Rs 40/Kg, Offering Relief to Farmers
Similar trends were reported in markets in Anantapur district, including Kakkalapalle.
Kurnool: Tomato prices have risen to around Rs 40 per kg in retail markets across Rayalaseema, providing relief to farmers after a prolonged price slump.
Farmers had faced losses for nearly three months as prices fell below input costs, forcing some to abandon produce in fields. The recent increase is attributed to reduced arrivals during the April–May season.
Market officials said the wholesale price in Kurnool stood at about Rs 25 per kg on Monday. Traders are sourcing tomatoes from Madanapalle to meet demand amid declining local production. Similar trends were reported in markets in Anantapur district, including Kakkalapalle.
Boya Kondanna, a farmer from Gonegandla mandal, said, “If prices remain at this level, we can expect at least 30 per cent profit after covering our investment. However, the yield this season is low, which is a concern.”
Officials indicated that prices may firm up further if arrivals remain low. “Arrivals are currently low, and demand is steady. If this trend continues, tomato prices may increase further,” a market official said.
Farmers said prices of other vegetables have also improved. V. Ramulu Nayak, a farmer from Banaganapalle, said, “Not just tomato, prices of capsicum, carrot, curry leaves and green chillies are also holding firm, which is a positive sign for farmers.”
Farmers, however, remain cautious and expect price stability to offset recent losses.
