Govt pushes high-value fruit cultivation to boost farmers’ incomes

New Delhi: Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivaraj Singh Chouhan conducted a high-level meeting recently for the improvement of horticulture across the country. The main focus of the meeting was on the farming of high-value crops such as dragon fruit, jackfruit, and avocado. These fruits have the potential to boost farmers’ income along with strengthening the rural economy.

Dragon fruit was earlier grown in nations like Mexico, Australia, and Thailand; gradually, it is now gaining popularity among the Indian farmers. The Indian Institute of Horticultural Research has left no stone unturned in improving the qualities of dragon fruits. IIHR has developed two varieties: IIHR Pink and IIHR White. They can be grown in some Indian states with bumper yields, unveiling income opportunities for farmers.

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ICAR-IIHR has also developed coppery red jackfruit varieties ‘Siddu’ and ‘Shankara.’ Currently, cultivation of these two varieties is going on in 1,500 acres. The demand for this fruit is high, giving farmers a chance in the fruit industry. Jackfruit farming is expanding because it has given a huge amount of income to the farming community.

Avocado is the first choice of elite-class Indians due to its health benefits. Therefore, IIHR has introduced two new varieties named Arka Supreme and Arka Ravi; they can be grown in tropical climates. The fruit is packed with 80 percent pulp. Another profitable option for farmers who are looking to diversify their crops.

Minister Shivaraj Singh Chouhan appreciated the effort of ICAR-IIHR’s contribution to the development of horticultural products and research. He further added that he has been growing dragon fruit, jackfruit, and avocado on his own farm. He hopes that farmers will take a lot of inspiration to grow value-added fruits and increase their income.