'Jackfruit can be next major export'

 Jackfruit, often perceived to be an inferior crop, could be the State’s next major export. The fruit, if processed properly, has the potential to earn the State a lot of revenue, said activist Shree Padre. Speaking at the Horticulture Day celebrations at Lalbagh on Wednesday, he explained various initiatives taken across the world in exploiting commercial value of the fruit. He suggested the Horticulture department to popularise the crop.  “The disadvantages are its overwhelming scent, size and difficulty in processing it,” he said. But, adoption of modern technology can give it a push.  As part of the series of lectures organised for the day, K Amaranarayana, secretary to deputy chief minister, explained the methods adopted in various countries for making the City greener. Based on his studies of green architecture in London and Libya, he said: “A majority of Libya is a desert. Making use of the little resources, the country has planted indigenous varieties along the roads.”  He said if the community is roped in, the results could be manifold.