As the festival of Deepavali approaches, the markets in Karnataka are brimming with colorful flowers. However, this abundance has not brought smiles to the faces of floriculturists, who are grappling with a significant oversupply that has led to a drop in prices. Farmers and flower traders in KR Market are expressing their anguish, reporting substantial losses, with a 60% decline in profits compared to the same period last year.
According to data from the Department of Horticulture, the four major flower-producing districts of Chikkaballapura, Kolar, Bengaluru Urban, and Bengaluru Rural have experienced a 13.2% increase in flower output this year. These districts are responsible for contributing 50% of the state’s flower production. While the yield has been impressive due to increased production and favorable weather conditions, the oversupply in the market has led to a sharp decline in prices.
KB Dundi, the Additional Director of the Department of Horticulture (Fruits and Flowers), explained the situation, “Last year, there was an increase in demand for flowers, but the supply was limited due to lower yield. This led to higher prices and good profits for farmers. In response to this trend in 2022, many farmers in these four districts shifted to flower cultivation, resulting in increased production.”
GM Divakar, the President of the Flowers Association City Market and a seasoned farmer, shared his perspective, stating that this year has been exceptionally challenging for cut flower cultivators. He noted that despite favorable weather conditions and good quality produce, the prices have dropped significantly. For example, a 25-35kg bag of chrysanthemums is currently priced at around Rs 100, significantly lower than the expected range of Rs 400 to Rs 500.
Somanna R, who works at the flower auction in KR Market, emphasized that last year’s Dasara and Deepavali brought great business and profits for farmers. However, this year, the prospects of price increases are dim. Bengaluru and its surrounding areas predominantly cultivate chrysanthemums and roses. While there might be some hope for a rise in rose prices in the coming days, the same cannot be said for chrysanthemums.
The situation is further exacerbated by the supply of flowers from neighboring states such as Krishnagiri and Hosur in Tamil Nadu, and Anaritpur and Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh, contributing to an already oversaturated flower market in Karnataka.
As the festival season approaches, floriculturists and farmers find themselves grappling with market dynamics that challenge their expectations and livelihoods, emphasizing the need for strategies to manage seasonal variations in supply and demand.
