Deshmukh Urges Action on Orange Exports Amid Bangladesh Turmoil

Senior NCP leader Anil Deshmukh has called on the Central and Maharashtra governments to address the export issues of oranges and sweet limes, specifically amid the ongoing turmoil in Bangladesh. The instability in the neighboring country poses a threat to farmers in the Vidarbha region, who are concerned about low prices during the November harvest.

Senior NCP (SP) leader Anil Deshmukh on Friday raised concerns about the export of oranges and sweet limes, urging both the Centre and the Maharashtra government to take immediate steps amid the ongoing turmoil in Bangladesh, a significant importer of these fruits from the Vidarbha region.

Deshmukh, the legislator from Katol in the state’s orange belt, pointed out that growers are anxious about not securing good prices for their produce during the upcoming harvest season in November.

Addressing the issue in a release, the former minister highlighted that in the past four years, Bangladesh increased the import price of oranges and lemons from Rs 88 to Rs 101 per unit. This price hike led to a significant drop in exports, resulting in many farmers facing substantial losses.

Deshmukh claimed that the Central and state governments' lack of action on import and export policies exacerbated the growers' woes. With the uncertain situation in Bangladesh, he emphasized the need for the government to explore alternative markets for these fruits to prevent further financial distress for farmers.

He urged the state government to collaborate with the Centre to aid farmers and ensure their produce finds new markets if exports to Bangladesh continue to be unviable.