Magazines

Subscribe to our print & digital magazines now

Subscribe

Revolutionizing Tomato Cultivation: New Regions to Tackle Price Fluctuations and Boost Economy

Fyllo's innovative solution brings hope for affordable tomatoes and job opportunities.

Updated on: 26 June, 2023 5:44 PM IST By: Aysha Anam
Technology used for tomato cultivation.

In a game-changing move set to transform the Indian tomato market, Fyllo, a leading agricultural research organization, has unveiled a ground-breaking strategy to tackle the perennial problem of skyrocketing tomato prices. With their comprehensive research, Fyllo has identified ten districts across the country that possess the perfect climate and soil conditions to cultivate tomatoes during the critical months of June and July, effectively curbing price fluctuations and bolstering the economy.

Tomatoes, the ubiquitous ingredient found in everything from tantalizing curries to delectable chutneys, have long been a staple in Indian households. However, the erratic price swings of this fragile fruit have burdened consumers and strained the economy. With India's tomato production already exceeding a staggering 200,000 metric tonnes, the issue lies not in the quantity but rather in the uncertainty surrounding prices.

The soaring temperatures that scorch the nation during the months of May and June have been a bane for tomato cultivation, leading to crop failures and subsequent price hikes. Delicate and vulnerable, tomatoes simply cannot withstand the intense heat and heavy rains that accompany the Indian summer. Recognizing this predicament, Fyllo has ingeniously suggested a timely shift in cultivation timelines, advocating for farmers to sow tomato seeds as early as April, ensuring a bountiful harvest during the crucial months of June and July.

But that's not all! Fyllo's research team, armed with a wealth of data, has identified the top ten districts across India blessed with ideal climates and fertile soils. These regions, including Ahmadnagar and Aurangabad in Maharashtra, Amreli and Panch Mahals in Gujarat, Bhojpur in Bihar, Chandauli in Uttar Pradesh, Firozpur and Hoshiarpur in Punjab, Hanumangarh in Rajasthan, and Jharsuguda in Odisha, possess the perfect balance of moderate temperatures, light showers, and optimal humidity levels. These factors ensure the finest quality tomatoes with vibrant colors, enticing both the eyes and taste buds of discerning consumers.

District

Air Temperature

(April)

Air

Humidity

(April)

Rainfall

(April)

Air

Temperature

(May)

Air

Humidity

(May)

Rainfall

(May)

Air

Temperature

(June)

Air

Humidity

(June)

Rainfall

(June)

Ahmadnagar

(Maharashtra)

29.39

45.69

0

30.83

49.11

0

28.46

66.6

21.14

Amreli

(Gujarat)

32.98

38.59

0

33.19

54.43

0

31.4

69.5

61

Aurangabad

(Maharashtra)

30.09

38.86

0.09

31.44

47.28

0

28.34

71.8

66.06

Bhojpur

(Bihar)

31.48

33.21

0

29.96

42.94

0

30.08

46.57

0

Chandauli (Uttar Pradesh)

33.12

37.96

0

33.42

54.1

25.5

33.81

60.46

50.5

Firozpur(Punjab)

29.37

43.61

0.56

32.63

42.85

7.38

33.23

48.9

31.79

Hanumangarh(Rajasthan)

29.96

33.6

56.33

31.01

38.8

67.94

33.58

52.22

28.39

Hoshiarpur (Punjab)

29.53

35

0

31.66

40.6

0

32.11

47.67

0

Jharsuguda (Odisha)

33.75

33.03

0

32.5

37.02

0

31.03

66.16

0

Panch Mahals (Gujarat)

31.62

36.74

0

33.53

50.48

0

32.22

62.79

79.5

Average

31.14

37.77

6.70

31.93

45.74

13.19

31.13

59.81

35.87

Standard Deviation

1.53

3.93

16.40

1.13

5.63

22.09

2.02

8.85

27.34

By extending tomato cultivation to these selected districts, not only can consumers bid farewell to exorbitant tomato prices, but the farmers themselves will reap the benefits. With minimized losses due to unfavorable weather conditions, farmers can expect greater profits and improved livelihoods. The abundance of fresh tomatoes will also pave the way for job creation, invigorating the local economy and empowering communities.

Nevertheless, this ambitious plan is not without its challenges. Developing these new tomato-growing regions requires extensive post-harvest infrastructure and logistics development. The support and cooperation of the government are vital to ensure the success of this endeavor. The availability of subsidies on technologies like drip irrigation and mulching paper will be instrumental in fostering the growth of these regions and transforming them into thriving tomato hubs.

With the prospect of stable prices, a steady food supply, increased employment opportunities, and an overall boost to the economy, the ground-breaking initiative by Fyllo promises to revolutionize tomato cultivation in India. This exciting development heralds a new era of affordability, accessibility, and prosperity for all tomato enthusiasts across the nation. Get ready to relish the taste of succulent tomatoes, knowing that the days of price uncertainty are finally behind us!

Test Your Knowledge on International Day for Biosphere Reserves Quiz. Take a quiz