In Nandyal district, India, a shift towards cultivating the Grand Nain (G9) banana variety, known for its high yield and quality, is proving profitable for local farmers. This variety, originating from Israel, is now produced to the tune of approximately 10,000 tons annually in the region. With an established cultivation area of 3,818 hectares across Kurnool and Nandyal districts, farmers are engaging in the fruit-care-activity method to ensure the production of larger, longer fruits. This method, alongside special ripening techniques, has led to an increase in both the size and quality of the bananas, making them a sought-after commodity in Arab countries.
The G9 variety boasts an impressive yield ranging from 50-100 tons per hectare in the first harvest, with subsequent harvests yielding slightly less. These bananas are sold for $340-$367 per ton (approximately $374-$404 per metric ton) to export firms, fetching a considerable profit for local farmers. The bananas, which are 15-20 cm in size, are noted for their richer taste and higher nutritional value compared to traditional local varieties. This has led to a growing demand in markets such as Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Bahrain, with annual exports reaching 10,000-12,000 tons.
The horticulture department is supporting G9 banana cultivation through subsidies and the provision of tissue culture plants from nurseries in Maharashtra, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. Farmers are able to cover their investment costs, which can be up to $10,085 per hectare over two years, and secure a profit by selling the produce at competitive prices. This venture is further facilitated by fixed-price agreements with companies for the initial harvest, ensuring a stable income for the growers. With cold storage facilities in Tadipatri and Anantapur playing a crucial role in the supply chain, the bananas are graded, packed, and transported efficiently to meet international demand.
As G9 banana cultivation continues to expand in Nandyal, it represents a viable and profitable agricultural practice, underpinned by strategic cultivation methods, supportive government policies, and a growing international market.
Source: Deccan Chronicle