In Rajasthan’s desert areas of the western region typically known for their lack of vegetation, an important change towards farming has been noticed. Barmer district, specifically is now an area of distinction for the cultivation of pomegranates as well as potatoes. The official figures of the state’s agricultural department reveal that over the period 2022-23, Barmer alone reported a crop of potatoes that covered five hectares and a production of 500 tonnes. Other desert areas such as Jalore, Jodhpur, and Bikaner have also contributed to yield of potatoes with 267 tons of potatoes, 245 tonnes, and 666 tonnes respectively.

Additionally, the cultivation of pomegranates has witnessed a significant increase throughout the entire state. Total production was 17165 hectares of 156,844 tons within the same period. Barmer district was the most prominent in this increase by producing 102.112 tons of 8,466 hectares. The high yield of the pomegranate plant throughout Jalore along with Jodhpur was not overlooked.

The effect of economics on local farmers is significant as one article noted that “Farmers from Barmer sell pomegranates for millions of rupees each year” and also highlighted the rising market for Barmer’s pomegranates international market, which includes Nepal, Bangladesh, and Dubai.

(Rs 100 = EUR1.10 (Rs 100 is EUR1.10)

Source: business-standard.com