Hubballi: Karnataka is witnessing a growing trend in the cultivation of exotic fruits, with local markets now offering an array of options from rambutan to dragon fruit. This shift is reducing the state’s reliance on foreign imports of these fruits.
According to the Karnataka Exotic-Fruits Farmers’ Association (KEFA), the annual import of exotic fruits has plummeted from nearly 50,000 metric tons to around 10,000 metric tons. The Horticulture Department confirms an increase in the consumption of locally grown varieties, with 64 types of exotic fruits cultivated across the state, including dragon fruit, avocado, rambutan, mangosteen, and litchi.
The cultivation area for dragon fruit, avocado, and litchi has expanded significantly, with dragon fruit alone being grown on 431 hectares—a 207-hectare increase from the previous year. In the 2022-23 season, farmers produced 4,501 metric tons of dragon fruit, earning Rs 43.68 crore, while avocado farmers generated 1,887 metric tons, yielding Rs 19 crore.
S.V. Hittalmani, a former additional director of the Horticulture Department, noted that the shift towards exotic fruits is beneficial, particularly as local varieties face pest issues and climate challenges. Farmers are drawn to these crops due to their higher returns and lower maintenance requirements.
However, challenges remain. Bhanuprakash, a dragon fruit grower from Tumakuru, highlighted concerns over market volatility and the need for better information and technology to improve fruit longevity. Currently, over 1,500 farmers are cultivating exotic fruits on approximately 2,500 acres in Karnataka.
Kantesh B. Dundi, Additional Director of Horticulture (Fruits), encouraged farmers to consider exotic fruit cultivation as a supplementary crop to boost their income. The department aims to raise consumer awareness about the nutritional benefits of these fruits and promote the consumption of locally grown options over imports.
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