The Indian government has taken significant steps to stabilize the mango sector in Andhra Pradesh, particularly focusing on the Totapuri variety, which is extensively cultivated for processing industries. In response to a sharp decline in market prices, the Centre has approved the implementation of the Price Deficiency Payment (PDP) under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for the 2026–27 marketing season. This initiative aims to provide financial relief to farmers and ensure fair returns for their produce.
Approval of Market Intervention Price (MIP)
On July 1, 2026, the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare sanctioned the PDP framework for Totapuri mango growers in Andhra Pradesh. The Market Intervention Price (MIP) has been set at ₹1,747 per quintal (₹17.47 per kilogram) for the upcoming marketing season. Coverage under the scheme is capped at 216,250 metric tonnes, representing 25% of the state's estimated production. The financial burden of the subsidy will be equally shared between the Centre and the State, each contributing 50% of the total cost to ensure transparency and efficiency. To qualify for the relief, farmers must trade their produce through notified Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) mandis. An expert committee has been established to examine the challenges faced by Totapuri mango growers in Andhra Pradesh. The committee is tasked with assessing the entire value chain of Totapuri mangoes, including cultivation, processing, marketing, domestic trade, and exports. The objective is to identify the root causes of the price decline and recommend measures to strengthen the sector and improve farmers' incomes. There has been debate between the ruling coalition and the opposition Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) over the declining market prices of mangoes in the Rayalaseema region. The YSRCP has been vocal about the distress caused to farmers due to the price crash, while the NDA government has emphasized its commitment to supporting the agricultural sector. The government's proactive measures aim to prevent distress sales and ensure that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce. (source: )
Impact on Farmers
Farmers in Chittoor district, a major hub for Totapuri mango cultivation, have expressed concerns over the sustained fall in prices, which have significantly affected their earnings and placed them under financial stress. Despite government assurances and pending intervention measures, pulp processing units continue to procure Totapuri mangoes for less than ₹6 per kilogram, leaving farmers distressed. The government's intervention is expected to provide much-needed relief and stabilize the market, ensuring that farmers receive fair returns for their hard work. (source: )
Conclusion
The Centre's intervention in the Andhra Pradesh mango sector reflects a concerted effort to address the challenges faced by farmers and stabilize the market. By implementing the PDP under the MIS and forming an expert committee to assess the value chain, the government aims to provide immediate relief and develop long-term solutions to strengthen the sector. These measures underscore the importance of supporting the agricultural community and ensuring the sustainability of the mango industry in the region.