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Progressive farmer Sahil Bais of village Bagaud in Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh has created a new identity by moving away from traditional farming and adopting dragon fruit farming. This advanced horticulture spread over about two acres is becoming an example of better production with less water. In the district, this farming seems to be opening the way for new income for the farmers and has become an inspiring model in the direction of modern agriculture.
Farmer Sahil Bais started dragon fruit cultivation in a planned manner. He told that about 1600 to 1800 saplings have been planted in one acre through cuttings. These plants have been grown on cement and iron pillars, which is called pillar system. This is a plant of the cactus family, which grows well even in less water.
In the first year of dragon fruit cultivation, the cost of structure construction, plant purchase and maintenance is high. According to Sahil Bais, there was a situation of no profit-no loss in the initial years but as the plants mature, there is every possibility of getting good profits in the coming years. This crop is capable of producing for 20 to 25 years.
The average yield of dragon fruit is considered to be 8 to 10 tonnes per acre. Its price in the market ranges from ₹ 150 to ₹ 300 per kg depending on the season and quality. On an average, 3 to 5 kg of fruits are obtained from one plant every year. Fruits start appearing 12 to 18 months after planting while full production capacity is achieved in 3-4 years.
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Sahil Bais has adopted drip irrigation system in his farm, which saves a lot of water. Generally, light irrigation in 7 to 10 days is sufficient. This crop is also useful from the point of view of water conservation. This crop gives better production in sandy-loamy and well drained soil.
This initiative of Sahil Bais is becoming a source of inspiration for other farmers of the district. This proves that farming can be made a profitable business by keeping in mind modern technology, low water crops and market demand. Improved horticultural crops like dragon fruit can become a strong base for the economic prosperity of farmers in future.
