Farmers in Moharchhara market of Khowai district, Tripura, are facing losses as kakrol price crash and fall below Rs 10 per kg at the wholesale level. However, retail markets sell the vegetable for around Rs 40 per kg. Rising costs, weak supply chains, and a lack of storage facilities have increased farmers’ concerns.
Quick Glance
- Kakrol farmers in Moharchhara market are receiving below Rs 10 per kg from traders.
- Retail prices in Khowai markets have reached around Rs 40 per kg.
- Farmers cite high input costs, lack of storage, and weak marketing systems.
- Growers demand government procurement centres and better market support.
Kalyanpur (Tripura) : A sharp fall in kakrol prices at Moharchhara market in Tripura’s Khowai district has created a serious financial challenge for vegetable farmers. Growers are struggling to recover cultivation costs as wholesale traders are reportedly purchasing kakrol at less than Rs 10 per kilogram.
At the same time, the vegetable is being sold at nearly Rs 40 per kilogram in retail markets of Khowai. The wide difference between the farm-gate price and consumer price has raised concerns about the existing agricultural supply chain.
Farmers say they invested heavily in cultivation this season. They spent money on seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, irrigation, and labour. However, the current market condition has reduced their earnings and increased their financial pressure.
Kakrol Farmers Face Losses Due to Low Wholesale Prices
Kakrol cultivation requires regular investment and care. Farmers need proper irrigation, pest control, and labour support to maintain production. However, growers in Moharchhara say the current market price does not match their expenses.
Farmer Haradhan Das said cultivation has become difficult because of the poor return from the market.
“We worked throughout the season and spent money expecting a fair income. But the present price has turned farming into a loss-making activity,” he said.
Another farmer, Partha Biswas, said traders are offering only Rs 8 to Rs 10 per kilogram at Moharchhara market.
“Farmers bring their produce early in the morning and wait for buyers. Since kakrol cannot remain fresh for a long time, we are forced to sell at the available price,” he said.
Farmer Partha Pal said many cultivators depend on loans for agricultural activities.
“If we do not get proper prices, continuing kakrol farming next year will become difficult,” he added.
Farm Price Vs Retail Price Shows Major Market Gap
The biggest concern among farmers is the difference between the price they receive and the price paid by consumers.
| Market Level | Kakrol Price |
|---|---|
| Wholesale purchase from farmers at Moharchhara market | Below Rs 10 per kg |
| Reported trader buying range | Rs 8-Rs 10 per kg |
| Retail market price in Khowai | Around Rs 40 per kg |
Farmers believe the price gap reflects problems within the vegetable marketing system. They claim that intermediaries have significant control over pricing.
According to growers, small farmers often have limited bargaining power because they lack direct access to larger markets and organised buyers.
The farmers believe a stronger market connection between producers and consumers could reduce price differences.
Storage Facilities Remain a Major Challenge for Farmers
Farmers in the region also highlighted the shortage of cold storage facilities as a major problem.
Kakrol is a perishable vegetable. Farmers cannot keep the produce for several days while waiting for better prices. As a result, they have to sell immediately after harvesting.
This situation puts farmers under pressure, especially when market demand remains weak.
Growers said improved storage infrastructure could help reduce wastage and provide farmers with more control over selling decisions.
Farmers Demand Government Action for Fair Pricing
Farmers have urged the Tripura government and the Agriculture Department to take immediate steps to support vegetable growers.
They demanded direct procurement centres, better storage facilities, stronger farmer producer organisations, and improved marketing arrangements.
Farmers believe a stable pricing system is necessary to protect small and marginal cultivators.
They said agriculture can remain sustainable only when farmers receive fair returns for their hard work.
Moharchhara Kakrol Crisis Highlights Larger Agricultural Challenge
The kakrol price situation at Moharchhara market is not only a local issue. It reflects wider challenges faced by farmers across vegetable-producing areas.
The imbalance between low farm prices and high retail rates shows weaknesses in the supply chain. Farmers are struggling with rising costs, while consumers continue to pay higher prices.
The current situation has renewed discussions about strengthening agricultural markets in Tripura. Better procurement systems, improved infrastructure, and stronger farmer support networks could help reduce such crises in the future.
The next steps from the Tripura government and concerned departments will be important in addressing farmers’ concerns and ensuring a more balanced agricultural economy.
People Also Ask
Why are kakrol farmers in Moharchhara facing losses?
Farmers are facing losses because wholesale prices have fallen below Rs 10 per kg, making it difficult to recover cultivation expenses.
Why is kakrol sold at a higher price in retail markets?
The price difference is linked to supply chain costs, intermediaries, transportation, and market management issues.
What support do farmers want from the government?
Farmers are demanding procurement centres, cold storage facilities, and better marketing systems for fair prices.