Daijiworld Media Network - Byndoor

Byndoor, Jan 29: As the effects of summer begin to show, the demand for fruits and fruit-based beverages is expected to rise significantly. Anticipating this, farmers in various regions of Byndoor constituency, including Kirimanjeshwar, Nagoor, Navunda, Khambadakone, and Heranjalu, have increased their watermelon cultivation. Compared to previous years, watermelon farming has expanded this season. While 147 acres were cultivated in 2024, this year, the area has increased to 183 acres. Most of the watermelon cultivation is concentrated in Byndoor hobli, with a few patches in Vandse and Kundapur hoblis. For many farmers, watermelon farming has become a primary livelihood.

Watermelons require ample sunlight to thrive. Last year, the yield and market prices were favourable. This season, the initial price for the Melody variety was Rs 12 per kg in fields, while the Namdhari variety is expected to fetch Rs 15–16 per kg. Prices may vary depending on market demand, farmers have reported.

In Byndoor taluk, watermelon is grown over 183 acres, with Nagoor alone accounting for 80 acres. Other regions include Herur (25 acres), Heranjalu (20 acres), Bijoor (15 acres), Uppunda (10 acres), Shirur (12 acres), Nada (6 acres), Nandanavana (10 acres), and Paduvari (5 acres). Watermelons grown in the taluk are exported to neighbouring districts and states every year.

For the past decade, watermelons have been cultivated in the region. This year, in Kirimanjeshwar, farmers have leased 3.5 acres of land, planting Namdhari variety on 1.5 acres and Melody variety on 2 acres. About 17 tons of watermelons from one variety have already been harvested and sold at Rs 17 per kg. The rest of the produce is expected to be sold soon. "Expecting high demand during summer, we have also planted a second phase of crops on one more acre last week," said Sudha Balgaar of Halageri, a watermelon farmer.

Last summer saw significant demand for both watermelons and tender coconut water, prompting an expansion in the area under watermelon cultivation this year. To promote watermelon farming, the horticulture department offers financial assistance of Rs 20,000 per hectare and Rs 16,000 per hectare for plastic mulching. The taluk has a target of expanding cultivation to 10 hectares. Applications have already been received for 8 hectares, and subsidies are being disbursed. For plastic mulching, the target is 5 hectares, and eligible farmers can avail of the assistance. "If applications exceed the set target, we will submit a separate proposal for additional subsidies to higher authorities," said Nidheesh KJ, senior assistant director of the horticulture department.