Pune: Maharashtra’s pomegranate farmers have made a remarkable comeback despite facing natural adversities over the years. According to the Agriculture Department, the state has exported 22,360 tons of pomegranates in the past nine months, contributing 78% of the country's total exports. This positions Maharashtra as the top exporter of pomegranates in India.
Pomegranate cultivation in Maharashtra spans over 1,15,000 hectares. The Agriculture Department has launched multiple initiatives to enhance export opportunities, resulting in a growing international demand. Pomegranates from Maharashtra are exported to countries such as Europe, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Nepal, and Malaysia.
Despite ongoing challenges, including unpredictable weather conditions, farmers have managed to maintain the quality of their produce through meticulous orchard management. Last year, Maharashtra exported 56,407 tons of pomegranates. This year, in just nine months, exports have reached 22,360 tons, with European and Gulf countries showing increasing interest.
Farmers from states like Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh have actively participated in exports. Of the 21,830 farmers registered for exports across the country, Maharashtra alone accounts for 21,797, demonstrating its leadership in the sector.
Innovative Steps to Enhance Cultivation
The Agriculture Department has implemented the HORTSAP project to monitor and control pest infestations and diseases in pomegranate crops. This initiative focuses on thrips, fruit borers, shot hole borers, oily spots, and wilt. As part of the program, 45 agricultural schools will be established in 2024-25 to further support farmers.
Farmer Perspectives
Vijay Margale, a pomegranate farmer from Tadawale, Atpadi Taluka, stated, "Despite unfavorable conditions, we are achieving high-quality production. Export-grade pomegranates are fetching excellent prices, encouraging more farmers to focus on exports."
Prabhakar Chandne, President of the All India Pomegranate Association, commented, "While the domestic market currently offers favorable prices, the export scenario for the year remains uncertain. However, Maharashtra’s farmers have shown tremendous resilience."