Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Requests Andhra to Lift Ban on Totapuri Mango Entry

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has appealed to his Andhra Pradesh counterpart to remove the ban on Totapuri mangoes entering the state from Karnataka. The unexpected restriction has affected mango growers and traders in Karnataka, especially in districts that depend on the Andhra market for seasonal mango sales.

Totapuri Mango Trade Disrupted
Totapuri mangoes, primarily cultivated in regions like Kolar, Ramanagara, and Chikkaballapur, form a major share of Karnataka’s summer fruit exports. Andhra Pradesh is a key buyer of these mangoes, especially for pulp processing industries located in Chittoor and surrounding districts.

The ban, reportedly imposed citing quality and pest-related concerns, has resulted in delays, financial losses, and heaps of produce lying unsold at mandis.

Karnataka Seeks Intervention
CM Siddaramaiah has written to Andhra CM N Chandrababu Naidu, urging immediate intervention and suggesting coordination between horticulture departments of both states. He emphasized that Karnataka farmers, many of whom rely solely on mango sales during this season, are suffering due to the blockade.

The appeal reflects the growing tension among farmers and traders whose income depends on cross-border agricultural movement.

Impact on Tier 2 Cities
Cities like Tumakuru, Mandya, and Mysuru—where mango farming supports thousands of livelihoods—are feeling the pressure. Small traders and transporters are also facing losses due to halted consignments and spoilage of stock.

Even in Andhra’s own Tier 2 belts like Nellore and Anantapur, fruit processing units are reporting low raw supply, affecting their operations.

A Call for Farmer-Friendly Solutions
The Karnataka government has sought a scientific inspection and resolution, ensuring that genuine quality concerns are addressed without penalizing the entire mango trade. The appeal is for balanced action that protects both farmers’ interests and public safety.

Conclusion:
The ongoing issue highlights the delicate balance between interstate trade regulations and farmer welfare. As CM Siddaramaiah presses for a quick resolution, the outcome could set a precedent for how agricultural disputes between Indian states are handled—especially when livelihoods in Tier 2 and rural areas are at stake.