First consignment of six dozen mangoes arrives ahead of the regular season, with the box expected to fetch over Rs 25,000.

The Alphonso

The much-awaited Devgad Alphonso mangoes from Konkan have made an early appearance at the Mumbai Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) market in Vashi, bringing excitement among traders and mango lovers.

The first consignment arrived on October 30 from Vijay Durga in Devgad taluka of Sindhudurg district. The box, containing six dozen mangoes, was sent by farmer Milesh Bandkar, who managed to cultivate the early crop despite challenging weather conditions.

Farmers in the Konkan region faced difficulties in protecting mango blossoms due to below-average rainfall and unfavorable weather. Bandkar adopted special measures, including covering mango trees and using fungicides and other treatments to protect the blossoms. Traders at the Vashi APMC fruit market have estimated that the first six-dozen box could fetch more than Rs 25,000.

Bandkar is also planning to send another six to seven boxes, each containing five dozen mangoes, around Diwali Padwa. The early arrival of Devgad Alphonso mangoes has generated interest among traders and consumers. However, regular arrivals are expected later in the season, depending on weather conditions and the overall crop yield.

Vashi APMC market records a price increase of Rs 200 to Rs 600 per kg, putting pressure on festive shopping budgets.

The Prices

Dry fruit prices have increased significantly ahead of Diwali, making festive shopping more expensive for consumers. Wholesale prices at the Vashi Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) market have risen by around Rs 200 to Rs 600 per kg compared to last year. The price rise is expected to affect households preparing Diwali sweets and snacks, as well as those purchasing dry fruit gift boxes for relatives, friends and employees.

According to market rates, green pistachios are selling at Rs 3,000 to Rs 3,200 per kg, while almonds cost Rs 1,100 to Rs 1,500 per kg. Cashew prices range from Rs 950 to Rs 1,500 per kg, while walnuts are priced between Rs 900 and Rs 2,200 per kg. Dried figs are selling at Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,400 per kg. Premium dry fruits are even more expensive, with pine nuts costing Rs 5,600 to Rs 6,000 per kg. Meanwhile, blueberries are priced at Rs 1,400 to Rs 1,600 per kg and cranberries at Rs 600 to Rs 800 per kg.

Traders have attributed the increase to supply shortages in international markets, import duties and rising transportation costs. Supplies from countries such as Iran and the United States have reportedly been affected, while arrivals at ports have remained lower than expected. With Diwali shopping underway, consumers may need to spend more on traditional festive preparations and gift hampers this year.

MIAL Sets November 3 Deadline as Mumbai Airport Prepares for Terminal 1 Redevelopment.

The Shift

Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) has asked airlines to submit plans by November 3, 2026, for shifting some international flights to Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) from the summer 2027 schedule. The proposed shift is linked to the redevelopment of Terminal 1 at Mumbai airport. The work is aimed at addressing ageing infrastructure and safety concerns while increasing the airport’s passenger-handling capacity.

MIAL plans to temporarily shift international flight operations accounting for around five million passengers annually to Navi Mumbai to accommodate the redevelopment. According to the airport operator, IndiGo, Air India and Akasa Air have already finalized plans covering approximately three million passengers annually. The remaining traffic, equivalent to two million passengers a year, is yet to be accommodated.

However, several airlines, particularly foreign carriers, have raised concerns about reducing their existing flight slots without adequate consultation. They have also suggested carrying out the redevelopment in phases to minimise disruption to operations. Mumbai airport currently handles around 55 million passengers annually. Following the redevelopment of Terminal 1 and expansion of Terminal 2, its capacity is expected to increase to 65 million passengers a year.

MIAL has assured airlines that international flight operations shifted to Navi Mumbai will return to Mumbai airport once the redevelopment and expansion work is completed. The proposed shift is expected to increase international operations at Navi Mumbai airport, although discussions with airlines over the relocation plan are continuing.