Dragon fruit cultivated on 2,000 acres, while avocados on 1,000 acres in Karnataka

Growing interest among farmers in cultivating dragon fruit and avocado

IIHR committed to innovation in developing novel varieties of exotic fruit

The luscious magenta of dragon fruit blooms across a sweeping expanse of 2,000 acres and the rich, creamy texture of avocados flourishes over at least 1,000 acres, as indicated by the insightful revelations of the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) scientists.

During an engaging and enlightening three-day seminar held on the verdant Bengaluru campus by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-IIHR, the discussion centered on the need to popularize and encourage the cultivation of exotic and underutilized horticultural treasures such as avocado and the increasingly sought-after dragon fruit.

Principal scientist Dr. G Karunakaran highlighted the growing interest among farmers in cultivating dragon fruit, avocado, and other such captivating crops.

Notably, Karnataka has emerged as the leading producer of dragon fruit in the country, and the seminar’s endeavors are expected to further bolster the cultivation of these unique horticultural specimens.

Dr. R Senthil Kumar, another esteemed principal scientist, emphasized the institute’s commitment to innovation in developing novel varieties of exotic fruits.

Shedding light on the shifting consumer trends, he pointed out the surge in interest in avocados, especially among the health-conscious populace post-pandemic, owing to their reputed nutritional benefits.

He further underlined the significant financial potential of avocado cultivation, with a promising estimate of up to Rs 4 lakh income per acre, thus offering a compelling incentive for farmers to explore these alternative crops.