Vegetable prices up as rain leaves farms waterlogged

Indore: Heavy rain over the weekend has disrupted supply of vegetables in the market leading to an increase in prices of most of them.Arrival of vegetables from Nimar region that contributes more than 60 per cent in total supplies has dropped sharply after farms became waterlogged due to rain. Prices of most vegetables except tomatoes have jumped by over 30 per cent, said traders.

Sabzi Mandi Thok Vyapari Kalyan Sangh vice-president Farooque Raeen said, “Supply of vegetables has reduced after rain. Farmers are not bringing in produce due to rainwater in farms. Short supply has spiked prices of most vegetables.”Daily arrival of vegetables in Choithram market of Indore has reduced to around 80 pick-up vehicles as against 120-150 vehicles earlier. Vegetable supplies from Gujarat and Maharashtra are aiding in meeting local demand in absence of sufficient arrivals from local farms, said traders.In Choithram market, prices of lady’s fingers have jumped to Rs 25 per kg, capsicum to Rs 50 per kg, sponge gourd to Rs 30 per kg, said traders. Prices of these vegetables were less than Rs 15 per kg in the Choithram market a week ago.Farmers said, harvesting of vegetables has become difficult due to rain and at least three-four sunny days are required for drying the fields and resume harvesting.Indore gets most of its supplies from Nimar and nearby villages. A farmer Arun Kushwah from Sanwer said, “Waterlogging in farms has damaged vegetables. There is no way to drain the water from the farm and stagnant water is harming the standing crop.”

Soon, organic vegetables to be sold on wheels in Shimla

The state project implementing unit of Himachal Pradesh's Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojana is helping farmers in three blocks near Shimla sell their chemical-free produce through mobile shops. The mobile vans will visit specified locations, including the state secretariat complex and the Himachal Pradesh University campus, every Friday. The initiative, which involves around 200 farmers, aims to provide consumers with access to fresh, chemical-free vegetables, fruits, and other products. If successful, the project may be expanded to other areas of Shimla and other districts in the state. Around 1.70 lakh farmers in Himachal Pradesh practice chemical-free farming techniques.

Easy tips to store vegetables for more than a week

To store cut vegetables for more than a week, wash and dry them thoroughly before cutting. Transfer them to airtight containers and place a paper towel at the bottom and top to absorb moisture. Store different types of vegetables separately to avoid cross-contamination. Monitor for excess moisture and replace damp paper towels. If you don't have airtight containers, use resealable bags and remove as much air as possible. Vacuum sealers can also extend shelf life. Consider blanching certain vegetables before cutting to preserve texture and color.

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