Nandapur,April 07:The soil and climate of Koraput district are highly suitable for carrot cultivation. Considering that carrots can be stored for longer periods at normal temperatures, the district horticulture department has decided to give priority to carrot farming alongside paddy, ragi, and other vegetables. This was informed by Deputy Director of Horticulture Sudama Biswal.
Carrots are rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C, K, B2, B3, B6, and E, along with minerals like potassium, copper, zinc, and calcium. They also contain fiber, antioxidants, protein, and carbohydrates, making them highly nutritious. Carrot cultivation requires relatively low investment and provides higher yields to farmers.
According to reports, April 4 is observed globally as World Carrot Day. In Koraput district, carrot cultivation is currently being carried out in six blocks—Nandapur, Lamtaput, Pottangi, Semiliguda, Koraput, and Jeypore—covering around 75 hectares of land. Two varieties, Pusa Kesar and Pusa Meghali, are being cultivated.
With an average yield of 16.82 metric tons per hectare, the district produces about 1,250 metric tons of carrots. There is strong demand for carrots at state, national, and international levels.
The government is providing an incentive of ₹20,000 per hectare for carrot cultivation, which will be utilized to further promote this crop in the coming days. Along with crops like coffee, ginger, potato, black pepper, and turmeric, carrot farming is expected to bring higher profits to farmers and improve the nutritional intake of local people.
Preparations are already underway by the department. Departmental AAE Prashant Jani, an AHO, and three farmers from the district recently visited Uttar Pradesh to study carrot cultivation. Based on their experience, efforts will be made to produce different varieties and colors of carrots in the district, informed Deputy Director Biswal.
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