Gujarat's Kesar mango, known for its saffron hue and sweetness, reached 689.5 metric tons in exports for 2023-24. This GI-tagged mango has bolstered its presence in international markets, with Gujarat emerging as a key player in India's mango export industry.
Mango cultivation in Gujarat has historical roots, with the Kesar variety introduced in 1931 in Junagadh's Gir region. The mango's name, given by the Nawab of Junagadh, reflects its unique saffron-colored pulp. The state currently has over 177,514 hectares dedicated to mango orchards in regions like Valsad, Navsari, Gir-Somnath, Surat, and Kachchh.
The state's mango production increased to 1.08 million metric tons in 2024 from 960,000 metric tons in 2023, as per the Gujarat Horticulture Department. Experts attribute this to the region's climate and soil composition. Unlike Alphonso mangoes, Kesar mangoes thrive in Gujarat's semi-arid conditions, benefiting from sandy loam and black cotton soil, hot summers, and moderate rainfall. Dr. Ramesh Patel from Junagadh Agricultural University notes, "The high temperature and mineral-rich soil contribute to the mango's distinct sweetness and flavor."
Gujarat's mango industry significantly impacts the state's agricultural economy, generating over $205 million in revenue in 2021. Advanced farming techniques like drip irrigation and organic composting are employed to enhance yield and quality. The Gujarat Agro Radiation Processing Facility in Bavla, Ahmedabad, ensures compliance with international quality standards, processing over 210 metric tons of Kesar mangoes in two years.
Challenges such as climate change and market fluctuations persist. The state government is addressing these through subsidized irrigation, improved logistics, and scientific advancements. Collaborations with institutions like the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Gujarat Agricultural Universities aim to develop resilient mango varieties.
Source: Free Press Journal