Bhagalpur set to become new hub for dragon fruit farming
November 11, 2024 | Times of India |
The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) of Bihar Agricultural University (BAU) has successfully experimented with growing dragon fruit (pitaya) in Bhagalpur, and plans for commercial cultivation by local farmers are set for next year. Dragon fruit, commonly grown in countries like Mexico, Thailand, and the USA, requires less water for irrigation, making it well-suited to the region amid changing climates. The plants are being cultivated using RCC poles to support their creeping growth. Dragon fruit is disease-resistant, requires minimal protection, and offers a high market value (Rs 150-200 per kg). Each fruit weighs between 300-800 grams, with an average yield of 5-6 tons per acre. The fruit is sold at a premium due to its long shelf life and easy transportation. Dragon fruit plants have a lifespan of up to 25 years, producing fruit 5 times a season. The initiative aims to establish the region as a farming hub for this exotic, nutritious fruit, which is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. BAU will train farmers and provide plants for cultivation.
Read more
Viewed Articles
November 11, 2024 | Times of India | The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) of Bihar Agricultural University (BAU) has successfully experimented with growing dragon fruit (pitaya) in Bhagalpur, and plans for
Read More
May 17, 2026 | Times of India | Unseasonal rain, strong winds, and hailstorms have caused severe agricultural losses in Bihar, damaging crops, mango orchards, and litchi production. The extreme weathe
April 14, 2025 | Daijiworld | Coconuts and tender coconuts have become scarce in coastal Karnataka, despite strong market demand and rising prices. Daily essentials for rituals and summer hydration, c
May 04, 2025 | Times of India | Coconut prices in Goa have surged sharply this summer, with mature coconuts selling at Rs 45–50 each in retail markets—nearly double the usual price. Wholesale rates ha
June 17, 2025 | Ascendants | India, the world’s largest mango producer, contributes 40–50% of global output, with key growing regions including Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtr
March 04, 2026 | Mongabay | Durian farmers in Banyumas, Indonesia, are facing severe harvest losses due to extreme and unpredictable weather, including heavy rainfall and strong winds. One farmer repo
