Dragon Fruit Dreams: Himachal Farmer Turns Innovation into Inspiration
In Himachal Pradesh, efforts to promote agriculture and horticulture are beginning to bear fruit—literally. Farmers from district Mandi, have stepped beyond traditional farming to cultivate dragon fruit, transforming his livelihood and inspiring others in his community.
With support from the state’s Horticulture Department, farmers have planted Jumbo Red dragon fruit saplings on their land. Their first harvest brought encouraging results, earning amout. Their journey shows how innovation, when paired with government support, can change lives.
Farmers have embraced natural farming, avoiding chemical fertilizers and pesticides, while also growing custard apple and papaya. They, proudly shares how they are spreading awareness about the health benefits of dragon fruit, which stays fresh for long periods without refrigeration.
Government schemes have provided crucial backing—subsidies under MIDH and drip irrigation support under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana have strengthened their efforts. Experts highlight that dragon fruit, a cactus species, thrives in warm regions and offers high yields in less time, making it a promising crop for farmers.
Mandi farmer’s success story is more than just about farming—it’s about hope, resilience, and the courage to try something new. His fields, once home to traditional crops, now glow with the vibrant hues of dragon fruit, symbolizing a future where Himachal’s farmers blend tradition with innovation to create prosperity.
