Jharkhand, which accounts for nearly 70% of India’s Lac production, is facing a potential decline in yield this season due to prolonged rainfall. The unusual monsoon pattern from June to October has disturbed the delicate cycle of Lac cultivation, raising concerns among farmers about severe financial losses.
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Prolonged Rain Disrupted Lac Insect Growth
Lac cultivation in Jharkhand traditionally begins in June and July when lac seeds are inoculated onto host trees. After initial humidity, a dry spell is essential for proper growth. However, this year’s extended monsoon prevented the lac insects from settling on branches, disrupting resin formation. Farmers from Khunti, including Lac grower Jitram Bedia, said the continuous downpour made it impossible for the Lac insects to survive, resulting in poor resin yield. Despite reduced output, the market price has remained static, intensifying the losses for cultivators.
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Farmers Urged for MSP Revision and Rain-Resistant Varieties
With harvesting due in November, farmers have urged the Government to revise the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Lac to offset their losses. Local producer Mahesh Mahli from Khunti appealed for immediate policy support to sustain production. The next sowing season, known as Kusumi Lac, will begin soon after the November harvest, but growers fear similar losses if rainfall continues. Agricultural experts, however, are hopeful that the newly developed Calendula variety, engineered to resist heavy rains could provide some relief in the coming years. Jharkhand’s Lac industry, a major source of rural livelihood, now stands at a critical point where scientific intervention and timely Government support could decide the future of this traditional craft.
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