Revival: Jackfruit boosts farmers’ income in Karnataka

Bengaluru: There was a time when jackfruit was considered the fruit of the poor. Gradually it is now gaining popularity, and now it is a remarkable source of income for  farmers, especially in Southern Karnataka. Its demand always remains high in the rural areas. Until recently this fruit was not commercially utilized. Therefore, scientists at ICAR-IIHR started a mission to give a new shape to this traditional fruit in 2014.

They conducted surveys in jackfruit-rich areas like Tumkur and studied 128 varieties. After going through them, researchers selected 42 based on qualities like flake colour, size, and nutrition. Finally, two top varieties were chosen—Siddu and Shankara. These varieties have beautiful coppery red flakes and are rich in nutrients.

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To support farmers and protect this native fruit, the institute introduced a smart business model in 2017. When a sapling is sold for Rs. 150, the farmer receives Rs. 112, and the institute gets Rs. 38 for research. This model not only gives farmers better income but also helps save traditional fruit varieties.

The success of Siddu and Shankara is more than just good farming. It shows how native plants, when supported by science, can bring pride, jobs, and sustainability to villages. Today, more people want fruits that are colourful, healthy, and chemical-free. Jackfruit is no longer just a humble fruit—it’s a powerful example of how tradition and innovation can work together to improve lives.

A team from ICAR-IIHR has given a lifeline to jackfruit, which has not received the distinction as a quality fruit. It is packed with nutritious values, so the demand for jackfruit suddenly jumped. It is being used in different forms as a vegetable when it is raw and then as a fruit when it ripens.