Insights from Nagpur's Orange Farmer

In the picturesque rural settings of Nagpur, Prashant Bhalechandra Shirkhandé, an orange farmer, highlights the significance of farming. His orange orchard, which began producing fruits around five years ago, is approximately ten years old. Prashant reports annual sales of about 7.5 million rupees from his oranges, indicating a lucrative pursuit, complemented by earnings from cauliflower as well. He emphasizes that dedicated farmers often reap the rewards of their hard work. Additionally, he references concerns regarding potential crop losses due to hail, noting the historical decrease in yield in such adverse conditions. Prashant shares his contentment with the current BJP government's performance and expresses his opinions about the forthcoming municipal elections. His remarks encapsulate the challenges and successes of farming in his region, revealing both the economic potential and the risks associated with climate variability that farmers like him navigate daily.