Over 20 farmers in Telangana, India, have died by suicide due to 'Chilli threats,' a pest attack that has affected hundreds of farmers and led to significant financial losses. The high cost of desi chilli, now over Rs 55,500 per quintal, and the inability to repay loans have exacerbated the crisis. The majority of the damage to the chilli crop, around 40-80%, is due to pest invasions, with the pest 'chilli thrips' affecting around 40,000 hectares of fields in Mahabubabad district. The farmers are seeking government assistance and compensation for their losses, but none has been received so far.