In Theni district, which is known for its expansive moringa cultivation, farmers are facing a significant setback due to the recent cold weather. The crop, which is cultivated over 7,500 acres in areas like Andipatti, Kadamalai Kundu, Chinnamanur, Theni, and Periyakulam, has been severely impacted by the intense cold conditions, leading to a sharp decline in the availability of moringa pods. The cold weather, which has intensified in recent weeks, has hampered the growth of the moringa plant, affecting its yield and making the pods scarcer than usual.
As a result, the Theni farmers' market witnessed a surge in the price of moringa pods, with the price climbing to ₹175 per kilogram. This is a significant increase compared to the usual prices. Furthermore, due to the reduced yield, each kilogram of moringa contains only around 15 pods, compared to the usual quantity, which has further limited the availability of the crop in the market. The shortage is not only affecting local supplies but also creating challenges for traders who usually rely on neighboring districts for additional stock.
Nagaraj, a local trader, explained that they had been sourcing moringa from other districts to meet the local demand. However, the supply from these areas has now dwindled due to the same cold weather issues, leaving traders with limited options. This has led to a situation where the local market is struggling to keep up with demand, and the price hike has left many consumers and traders facing difficulties.
The scarcity of moringa has caused ripple effects in the local market, as it is an essential ingredient in various dishes and is highly valued for its health benefits. The price increase has led to concerns among buyers, especially in a time when the supply chain has been disrupted, making it more difficult for many to access this nutritious product.
Farmers and traders in the region are hopeful that the weather will improve in the coming weeks, which may help in restoring the crop’s production. However, the immediate future remains uncertain, and it may take some time for the supply and price to stabilize. As of now, both farmers and consumers are feeling the pinch of the unusual weather patterns, which have had a considerable impact on the local moringa market.
