Kamalam or Dragon Fruit, a climbing cactus plant, is widely known for its economic value and health benefits. The fruit is native to Southern Mexico, Central and South America, and is now being cultivated in more than 22 countries worldwide, including India.
Kamalam or Dragon Fruit provides a fast return with economic production in the first year after planting, and full production is attained in 3-4 years. The crop has a life expectancy of about 20 years and can yield up to 10 tonnes per acre after two years of planting. With a market rate of Rs. 100 per kg fruit, revenue generated per year can be up to Rs. 10,00,000. This provides great economic benefits to farmers who cultivate Kamalam fruit.
Fact/Figure | Detail |
Plant Name | Kamalam or Dragon Fruit |
Origin | Southern Mexico, Central America, South America |
Popular Names | Pithaya, Pitaya, Pitaya Roja, Pithajah |
Economic Value | Food products like juice, jam, jelly etc and health benefits such as boosting immune system, aiding digestion, also rich in fiber, antioxidants and vitamins. |
Area of Cultivation | South-East Asia, India, USA, Caribbean, Australia |
Total Cultivation Area in India | More than 3,000 ha |
Kamalam Import in India | 327 tonnes in 2017, 9,162 tonnes in 2019, 11,916 tonnes estimated for 2020, 15,491 tonnes estimated for 2021 |
Projected Import Value (2021) | Rs. 100 crores |
Yield per Acre | 10 tonnes |
Market Rate | Rs. 100 per kg |
Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) | 2.58 |
MIDH Target for Kamalam | 50,000 ha in 5 years |
Life Expectancy of Crop | About 20 years |
Centre of Excellence | Established by IIHR, Bengaluru on 09-03-2023 |
Centre of Excellence Focus | Production, post-harvest, value addition and research |
With the growing interest among farmers and the quick returns they are getting from cultivating Kamalam in agricultural and marginal lands, it is anticipated that Kamalam will expand to new regions and domestic farming will entirely replace imports. The establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Kamalam Fruit will help in achieving self-sustenance in Kamalam fruit production, value addition and enhancing economic development of the farming community.
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