Normally, in mid-May, a heavy, sweet scent fills the air in villages of Muzaffarpur, signalling the ripening of premium-grade Shahi litchis. This year, orchards in the region smell of damp earth and rot, owing to a pest attack and sudden weather changes that have destroyed thousands of kilos of the fruit.
Pest Outbreak and Weather Wreak Havoc
A severe infestation of stink bugs, compounded by unseasonal rains and temperature fluctuations, has led to catastrophic losses for litchi growers in Bihar. The state, which is the largest producer of litchis in India, has seen its prized Shahi variety suffer damage ranging from 50% to 70% in many orchards.
Impact on Farmers and Workers
The crisis has not only affected farmers but also labourers, packers, and transporters who depend on the short summer harvest. Many families face economic distress as the primary source of income for the season has been wiped out.
- Over 70% crop loss reported in some areas
- Thousands of kilograms of litchis destroyed
- Farmers unable to recover production costs
Government Response and Future Outlook
The Bihar government has announced a compensation package for affected farmers, but many say it is insufficient. Agricultural experts recommend integrated pest management and better weather forecasting to mitigate such crises in the future.
Erratic weather patterns and pest infestations are likely to increase due to climate change, posing a long-term threat to litchi cultivation in the region.
