October 14, 2024 | Deccan Herald |
The cultivation of exotic fruits, including rambutan, dragon fruit, and avocado, is thriving in Karnataka, India, significantly reducing the state’s dependence on imports. According to the Karnataka Exotic-Fruits Farmers’ Association (KEFA), annual imports have plummeted from nearly 50,000 metric tons to about 10,000 metric tons. The Horticulture Department reports a growing consumption of locally produced exotic fruits, with 64 varieties being cultivated, predominantly on an experimental basis.
Notably, dragon fruit cultivation has expanded to 431 hectares, marking a 207-hectare increase from the previous year, yielding 4,501 metric tons worth Rs 43.68 crore. Avocado has also seen growth, covering 199 hectares and producing 1,887 metric tons valued at Rs 19 crore.
Despite the success, challenges remain, such as market volatility and limited information on enhancing fruit longevity, leading to distress sales among farmers. Over 1,500 farmers are currently growing exotic fruits on 2,500 acres in Karnataka. The Horticulture Department encourages these farmers to adopt exotic fruits as supplementary crops to boost their income while promoting awareness of their nutritional benefits to consumers.
