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Warulwadi farmers export first container of bananas to Iraq, expecting $11,632 per hectare

Farmers in Warulwadi, Junnar taluka, traditionally known for their export-quality grapes, have started cultivating export-grade bananas, creating a new source of sustainable income. Rutuparna Meher, an innovative farmer, has made history by sending the first air-conditioned container of export-grade bananas to Iraq. This venture was supported by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Narayangaon, Deccan Valley Farmers Producer Company, and Sahyadri Farmers Producer Company.

The ceremonial launch of the banana shipment took place at KVK Narayangaon, with the container dispatched by banana producers Monika Meher, Rama Meher, and Rutuparna Meher, in the presence of MLA Sharad Sonawane and KVK President Anil Meher, among other dignitaries. The 15-ton shipment, consisting of 1,540 boxes of bananas, is set to reach Iraq within eight days via Mumbai's Nhava Sheva Port, meeting the steady demand from Gulf nations.

Anil Meher commented, "Farmers in Junnar and Ambegaon talukas are being guided to adopt export-quality banana cultivation through KVK's support. Efforts are also underway to explore the export potential of other crops like okra in the near future." Rutuparna Meher initiated this venture by planting G-9 banana saplings on 2 hectares, with an investment of approximately $4,352 (₹2.7 lakh) per hectare for saplings, drip irrigation, and fertilizers. The first harvest yielded about 68 tons of bananas per hectare, with 56 tons meeting export standards, sold at about $0.40 (₹32) per kilogram. Meher expects to earn around $11,632 (₹9 lakh) per hectare from exports.

Deccan Valley Farmers Producer Company has launched banana cluster projects in several talukas, having already exported 14 containers of bananas to Gulf countries. Despite recent cold weather impacting market rates, farmers continue to see average yields of 40-50 tons per hectare.

Source: The Bridge Chronicle

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