In Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitharama Raju district, tribal farmers from Gondipakalu and Peddabarada villages have shifted towards avocado cultivation. Historically focused on coffee plantations, these growers are now expanding into high-value crops like avocados, apples, and dragon fruit in the Chintapalli region.
The Coffee Board of India initially introduced avocado seedlings in 2004, primarily as shade plants in coffee gardens. Farmers such as Janakani Lingamurthy and Bonangi Srinu planted seedlings at around US$0.30 each, initially unaware of the fruit's commercial value, allowing them to rot on trees.
The outlook changed when a voluntary organization realized the fruit's market potential. Subsequently, an organic farmers' association began purchasing avocados at US$1.45–1.95 per kilogram, marketing them in the plains. Farmers reportedly earned US$360 to US$480 annually from avocados.
Chetti Bindu, Head of the Horticultural Research Station at Chintapalli, states, "The nutrient-rich fruit, praised for managing obesity, regulating cholesterol and blood sugar, and enhancing skin health, has become a regular ingredient in salads and juices." Bindu confirms that Manyam's climate is conducive for avocado farming; grafted saplings yield fruit in five years, while seed-grown trees take eight.
Farmers are requesting support from the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) to expand avocado farming. Yields are promising, with maturation reaching 800–900 fruits per tree by the twelfth year. The avocados are cultivated without chemical fertilizers, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
Recently, these avocados have been trading at US$0.60–0.70 per piece, with some farmers opting for direct shipping to customers.
Source: Deccan Chronicle
