Bathinda, Aug. 3 -- A combination of extreme weather abnormalities and rising summer temperatures over the last four-five years has pushed Punjab's booming litchi industry into an economic crisis.

Despite an expansion in cultivation and an eager international market, orchardists across the state have been left reeling from severe crop degradation, stalling Punjab's export momentum to Europe and the Middle East this season.

'Dehradun' and 'Calcuttia' are the main varieties grown in Punjab. The 'Dehradun' variety is distinguished by its deep red, round shape, while the 'Calcuttia' variety is slightly pointed and has a more squarish appearance.

According to the state horticulture department, Punjab's litchi cultivation spans over 4,000 he...