LUCKNOW, May 8 -- In the midst of strife comes news that will gladden most hearts!

Experts believe that a combination of timely rains and ideal weather conditions is going to boost the quality of the "king of fruit", leading to a sweeter and larger yield this season, in Uttar Pradesh.

Farmers from the mango belts of the state report that the favourable heat during February and March supported excellent flowering. Now, the recent spell of rain is expected to enhance both the taste and size of the mangoes, making this year's harvest one of the best in recent times.

Upendra Kumar Singh, a Malihabad-based farmer and general secretary of the Awadh Mango Producer Horticulture Committee, said, "Rain at this time enhances the weight of mango f...