A Pune farmer from Maharashtra reaps profits of over ₹2.8 crore by selling tomatoes amidst surging prices nationwide. Ishwar Gayakar, along with his wife, plans to achieve a target of ₹3.5 crore with 4000 remaining crates. Reflecting on his journey of perseverance, Gayakar stated, “This didn’t happen overnight. I’ve been cultivating tomatoes on my 12-acre farm for the past six to seven years, facing losses but never losing hope.” With approximately 17,000 crates sold at prices ranging from ₹770 to ₹2311 per crate, Gayakar’s total earnings are expected to reach ₹3.5 crore. He acknowledges his family’s support and expresses gratitude for the favorable prices obtained for their tomatoes.
Initially expecting a price of ₹30 per kilogram, Gayakar experienced a remarkable turnaround this season, leading to a bountiful harvest and higher profits. He inherited farming from his father and, since 2017, expanded his cultivation from one acre to 12 acres, aided by available labor. Besides tomatoes, Gayakar cultivates onions and flowers according to the respective seasons.
In a recent move benefiting consumers, the government has reduced the wholesale price of tomatoes from ₹90 to ₹80 per kilogram in several cities, including Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Patna. Implemented through the National Agriculture Cooperation Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) and the National Consumer Cooperation Federation (NCCF) since July 16, these changes aim to alleviate the burden of high tomato prices. Further adjustments in tomato prices will be considered based on the prevailing market rates. Previously, on July 14, the tomato rates stood at ₹90 per kilogram.
