Lemon prices crash, worried Nellore farmers and traders seek govt intervention

LEMON prices have declined sharply over the past week, leaving farmers and traders in distress.

- D SURENDRA KUMAR @Nellore

Lemon is now being sold at just ₹20 to ₹30 per kg, marking a steep fall in prices.

During the peak season, as many as 20 truckloads of lemons used to be exported daily to northern states, bringing bustling activity to the local markets. However, the once-thriving trade is now facing a dramatic slump.

In Nellore district alone, lemon crop is cultivated in over 17,000 hectares. Podalakur lemon market yard, known for its high quality produce, supplies lemon to both national and international markets. Gudur lemon market also plays a key role in large scale exports.

Traders are now expressing concern over the sudden market collapse. With exports coming to a halt, they are still compelled to purchase the incoming produce from farmers, despite the lack of demand.