DFNet

July 14 2026 | Ushodaya Enterprises |

Dragon fruit cultivation has expanded rapidly in Karnataka’s Davanagere district since its introduction in 2018, transforming the crop from a high-value specialty fruit into a widely produced commodity. However, increased production has resulted in oversupply, causing farmgate prices to fall sharply and reducing growers’ profitability.

Farmers who once earned strong returns from the crop now receive only Rs 40–70 per kg, with lower-quality fruit selling for as little as Rs 20 per kg. Given the high establishment cost of approximately Rs 4 lakh per acre, many growers are struggling to recover production expenses. Traders also report weak consumer demand despite significantly lower retail prices, with sales remaining limited.

In response to mounting losses, farmers are calling on the Karnataka government to introduce a minimum support price or other price stabilization measures. They are also urging the horticulture department to intervene and support the sector. The situation highlights the challenges of balancing rapid expansion in horticultural production with market demand, underscoring the need for effective market management and price support mechanisms.

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