Castor production estimated to decline by 8 percent
17-Feb-2025 09:11 PM
The report highlights a significant decline in domestic castor production for the 2024-25 season, estimating an 8% drop to 18.22 lakh tonnes. This reduction is attributed mainly to a large decrease in the area sown with castor crops. Despite a high yield rate, factors like unfavorable weather conditions played a major role in the reduced production.
Key points from the report:
Weather Impact: Heavy rains and floods in August 2024 severely impacted the sowing and germination process, especially in Gujarat, the largest producing state. Many areas had no germination, and in others, plants rotted, requiring re-sowing in late August to early September.
State-wise Decline:
- Gujarat: A 6% reduction in production to 14.75 lakh tonnes.
- Rajasthan: A 9% decrease, with production dropping to 2.85 lakh tonnes.
- Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: Combined production fell by 33%, amounting to just 54,000 tonnes.
Re-sowing and Crop Weakness: Due to the damage from the rains, farmers had to re-sow in many areas, and where re-sowing wasn’t done, the crop remained weak with fewer plants and an increase in weeds.
This reduction in production is significant for both the domestic market and international trade, as India is a major producer of castor. The decline could result in price fluctuations and might affect industries that depend on castor oil.