Bengaluru, June 12: A political row has erupted between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh following the latter’s sudden ban on the entry of ‘Totapuri’ mangoes from Karnataka. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has raised strong objections, calling the move “abrupt and unilateral,” and urged Andhra Pradesh to immediately revoke the restriction.
In a formal communication to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Siddaramaiah expressed “deep concern” over the decision, stating that it has severely affected mango farmers in Karnataka’s border districts, particularly in Chikkaballapur, Kolar, and Ramanagara. These regions are major producers of the Totapuri mango variety, which is widely used in the pulp and processing industry.
According to Karnataka officials, the ban has led to a sharp drop in mango prices, causing significant financial distress for farmers during the peak harvest season. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of inter-state cooperation and warned that such decisions could undermine the spirit of federalism.
“This action not only impacts the agricultural economy of our border districts but also sets a damaging precedent for inter-state trade relations,” Siddaramaiah said in the letter.
The Andhra Pradesh government has reportedly cited quality and phytosanitary concerns as the reason for the ban. However, Karnataka’s horticulture department has rejected these claims, asserting that the state follows stringent quality control and hygiene measures as per national standards. Officials also pointed out that there had been no prior complaint or consultation before the enforcement of the ban.
Farmer organizations in Karnataka have staged protests over the issue, demanding the ban be lifted. They claim that over 15,000 tonnes of Totapuri mangoes were slated for export to Andhra Pradesh this season. With storage facilities lacking in rural areas, farmers fear large-scale spoilage and income losses.
Political analysts suggest that the move may have electoral undertones, as Andhra Pradesh prepares for upcoming state elections. Some speculate that the decision is intended to safeguard the interests of mango growers in Andhra’s Chittoor region, which also produces Totapuri mangoes.
The Karnataka government is considering raising the matter with the Centre if the ban is not revoked soon. Officials argue that such trade disruptions can have long-term implications for the agricultural economy and call for policy clarity on inter-state produce movement.
As the dispute escalates, both states are under pressure to find a resolution that protects farmers’ interests and upholds cooperative federalism.
