Central Gujarat farmers shifting to grape farming

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Six farmers of Savli taluka (Vadodara district) have reaped a rich harvest by shifting to grapes in the period. These farmers have brought around 7 acres under grape plantations.

Last year the yield was around 4 tonnes an acre and total production was 30 tonnes.

"After successfully planting grapes last year, this is for the second consecutive year that I have opted for this crop," said Mukesh Patel from Savli taluka. There is a good demand for grapes grown in this region. Cities such as Ahmedabad and Vadodara are offering good market for grapes grown here, he added.

"Till now farmers used to grow cotton, banana and tobacco in the region. But now they are trying newer crops for better returns," said Satish Patel, chairman of BJP Kisan Morcha in Vadodara.

Slowly but gradually grape plantation in central Gujarat and surrounding areas is gaining momentum. A farmer in Godhra taluka in Panchmahals district, around 65 km from Savli, grows grapes in 17 acres. South Gujarat-based Desai Fruits and Vegetable is also planning to grow grapes in the arid region of Kutch.

However, high initial investment remains a major concern for the farmers, which comes to around Rs 200,000 per acre. Further, farmers have to procure grape plants from Maharashtra.

The crop also requires skilled labour, which is very difficult to find here.

Farmers of the region believe that more and more farmers are likely to opt for grape cultivation.