There’s something magical about the arrival of litchis each summer.

Their rosy-red shells peek out from fruit carts, kitchen bowls overflow with freshly bought bunches, and families gather around to peel away the rough skin and reveal the juicy sweetness within. 

For many Indians, litchis are more than just a seasonal fruit — they are a taste of childhood holidays, lazy afternoons, and memories shared with loved ones.

But this summer, India’s litchi growers are reporting lower yields. Extreme heat, unseasonal rain, and changing weather patterns have taken a toll on orchards. 

The shortage is particularly visible in Bihar, home to the country's famed Shahi litchi, where farmers have lost a significant portion of this year's crop.

Yet even as climate challenges threaten one of India's most beloved summer fruits, farmers and researchers are finding new ways to adapt — offering hope that future generations will still get to savour the........

© The Better India