With the Kerala state government advocating for policy adjustments to permit limited fruit cultivation on plantations, there's a growing interest among farmers to explore the cultivation of exotic fruits. Over the past years, the agricultural landscape in Kerala has shifted, with an increasing number of farmers diversifying into exotic fruit production such as dragon fruit, rambutan, mangosteen, and avocado, moving away from traditional crops like banana, mango, jackfruit, papaya, and pineapple. This shift is attributed to the challenges posed by climate change and the evolving market demands.
Jyothi Bhaskar, the head of the Fruits Crops Research Station at Kerala Agriculture University, notes the changing climate conditions have presented significant challenges for the cultivation of traditional crops in Kerala. She highlights the growing domestic and international market demand for exotic fruits as a potential avenue for local farmers to explore. Despite the increasing adoption of exotic fruits across Kerala, Bhaskar mentions that large-scale cultivation is still in its nascent stages. She points out specific fruits like avocado, which has seen extensive cultivation in the high ranges, and dragon fruit, known for its adaptability to dry or rocky terrains, as examples of successful exotic fruit cultivation. Additionally, the cultivation of mangosteen and rambutan has expanded, with some farmers beginning to export their produce.
Keerthana Sethunath, a PhD candidate in fruit sciences at KAU's College of Agriculture, echoes the sentiment that exotic fruits offer promising prospects for farmers due to their high yield and better returns. She emphasizes the increasing consumer preference for healthier food options, which include exotic and nutrient-rich native fruits. In response to the growing demand for diverse fruit options rich in antioxidants and other nutrients, the FCRS has established a farm in Mannuthy showcasing around 80 varieties of fruits recommended for cultivation in Kerala, including durian, longan, variegated guava, miracle fruit, jujube fruit, abiu, and more, with plans to make saplings available for sale soon.
Source: The New Indian Express