The ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute (CCRI), Nagpur, has initiated the commercial cultivation of six sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) varieties in Biswanath Chariali, Assam, to address the increasing demand for this fruit. The varieties include Valencia, Westin, TM-33, Cutter Valencia, Pera, and Natal. This endeavor follows research indicating the potential of sweet oranges in the region, traditionally dominated by Khasi Mandarin and Assam Lemon. Despite these dominating the commercial citrus landscape, they account for only a small fraction of the national citrus area and production, with the state's demand largely met by imports from Nagpur and Punjab.
Established by the ICAR-CCRI in 2017, the Regional Research Centre for Citrus (RRCC) at Biswanath Chariali has been evaluating these varieties under local climatic conditions. Dr. Eveining Stone, a senior scientist at the RRCC, highlighted the non-traditional nature of sweet oranges in Northeast India, particularly Assam, and their promising performance. The varieties show varying maturity periods, facilitating extended availability of the fruit. Cutter Valencia and Valencia, noted for being less seeded, are deemed highly suitable for processing, while the others are aimed at the fresh fruit market. This introduction of sweet orange varieties is seen as a means to diversify crops and bolster both the regional citrus industry and the broader agricultural economy. Initially, 39 varieties were planted over an area of 10 hectares, with only six varieties thriving.
Source: The Sentinel