August 23, 2025 | Times of Indie |
Farmers in Prayagraj are increasingly adopting the fruit bagging technique to protect dragon fruit crops during the monsoon season. This method involves enclosing individual fruits in paper or fabric bags, creating a protective microenvironment that shields against rain, pests, diseases, and fungal infections, thereby improving fruit quality and yields.
The state government is actively promoting dragon fruit cultivation under the Integrated Horticulture Mission, offering farmers economic assistance. Support measures include subsidies of up to 30,000 rupees for dragon fruit production and 40 percent funding for crop protection. Officials highlight that bagging not only prevents rain and insect damage but also boosts fruit output.
The initiative has already helped many local farmers increase their income by moving beyond traditional crops. For example, five farmers from Mirzapur adopted the bagging technique with departmental support and reported both safer crops and higher yields. Despite challenges from excessive rainfall that destroyed several quintals of fruit, the protective bagging practice has proved effective in minimizing losses.
Progressive farmers, like Chhotelal Gautam in Sarangapur village, confirm its benefits despite this year’s heavy rains. Overall, the state’s promotion of dragon fruit farming and bagging techniques is raising incomes and encouraging wider adoption across districts.
