The Krishi Mela 2023 in Bengaluru showcased the introduction of five new crop varieties, a flower, a fruit, and three types of millets, benefitting Karnataka's farming community.
Among the highlights is the Halasu GKVK Kempu, a new red jackfruit variety. Another noteworthy addition is a hybrid sunflower with a quick growth cycle of 95 to 98 days, resistant to downy mildew.
Officials from the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, provided information indicating a seed yield of 8.9 to 10.5 quintals per acre and an oil yield of 3.6 to 4 quintals per acre for this sunflower.
The release also featured a fresh ragi variety, a new type of little millet, and an additional posco millet variety.
GKVK introduced a hybrid ornamental sunflower designed to compete in the domestic decoration market, offering advantages such as reduced water requirements and a short flowering period of 45 days. This "suryakanthi" plant is ideal for vibrant stage decorations at functions and events.
With a potential yield of 1,10,000 flowers per acre, each fetching ₹10 to ₹15 in the local market, it presents an attractive economic prospect for farmers. The ornamental sunflower is available in three shades of deep yellow and red, retaining its freshness for five to six days.
In essence, the Krishi Mela not only unveiled innovative crop varieties but also introduced an ornamental sunflower with commercial potential, providing farmers with new opportunities and enhancing the diversity of agricultural produce in Karnataka.
