As Karnataka embraces the golden days of pineapple season, Ajay Noronha’s estate in Subhas Nagar, Katapadi, hums with the vibrant energy of harvest. A second-generation agriculturist, Ajay carries forward a rich legacy begun by his ancestors who migrated from Goa, introducing the esteemed ‘Mauritius‘ pineapple to the region.

Initially, nearly 90% of their produce was the Mauritius variety, locally dubbed the Kerala type, with a modest 10% being the ‘Giant Kew‘. Over time, farming patterns shifted — today, the robust Giant Kew dominates 80% of Ajay’s fields, with each pineapple reaching an impressive 4 kilograms in weight.

Thanks to its resilience and minimal water demands — just once weekly — the Giant Kew thrives in the tropical climate with little intervention. This ease of cultivation, coupled with surging wholesale prices that have crossed Rs 80 per kg over the past three years, has transformed pineapple farming into a booming enterprise.

Ajay’s efforts are strengthened by government initiatives, including subsidies for planting materials and a 33% cultivation support per acre. In 2017, the farm saw the planting of 50,000 pineapple plants, yielding a bountiful 1 lakh kilograms in under two years. Though estate renovations are ongoing, 15,000 healthy plants continue production today.

Beyond farming, Ajay’s vision is expanding. Visitors at his homestay enjoy fresh, homemade pineapple juice, and soon, a wine tourism experience will unfold — partnering with a Shivamogga-based craft winery using his pineapples for premium fruit wines.

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