Pomegranates fetch Rs 2,000 a dozen!

Buying a pomegranate? Well, you may have to think twice. For, a dozen of pomegranates are being sold at Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 in the market here. At least, a single fruit costs Rs 100 now.

The bumper price has brought cheers to the growers, while the fruit-lovers are feeling the pinch.
The fruit grown on Indian soil is considered tasty and is more in demand in Spain
and European nations. With the prices skyrocketing, the export has gained momentum. Pune, Mumbai and Delhi are the major cities that receive fruits grown in the district.

“There is a difference in the price of pomegranates sold at Hopcoms and market - it is Rs 250-Rs 300 per kg,” said Horticulture Department Deputy Director Kadiregowda. But, it’s a profit all the way to growers, he added.

Currently, the fruit is grown in 15,000 hectares in the State. But the yield witnessed a dip as the fruits were affected by Bacterial Blight disease in the year 2011-12.

In the district, pomegranates are grown on 250 ha, especially in Davangere, Jagalur and Harapanahalli taluks. Jagalur has the highest growing area - 80 ha.
 
It is the ‘Bhagawa’ variety that is predominantly grown, to which farmers invest at least Rs 80,000 to Rs one lakh. In return, they earn

Rs five lakh income. This year, the growing area will be extended to 30 hectares, said Kadiregowda.