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Muzaffarpur is now known not only in India but all over the world for its litchi production. National Litchi Research Center developed new litchi varieties like Gandaki Yogita, Gandaki Sampada and Gandaki Lalima which are helpful in better yield, quality and increasing the income of farmers.
Muzaffarpur. The National Litchi Research Center (NRCL) located in Muzaffarpur has given a big gift to the litchi producing farmers. Many new and improved strains of litchi developed by the Center are now being made available for cultivation, which not only give better yield and quality, but also provide relief to a great extent from the problem of fruit cracking. Prominent among these new varieties are Gandaki Yogita, Gandaki Sampada and Gandaki Lalima. According to experts, the introduction of these varieties will help in prolonging the litchi season and increasing the income of farmers.
Climate change will not affect
NRCL scientists say that due to climate change and irregular weather, the problem of fruit cracking and reduced production in traditional varieties was continuously increasing. Keeping this in mind, these advanced strains have been developed after many years of research.
Gandaki yogita litchi is very beneficial
Gandaki Yogita is considered especially beneficial for litchi growers. This variety ripens 7 to 10 days earlier than the popular Shahi Litchi. This gives farmers an opportunity to enter the market early and get better prices in the initial season. Besides, it also reduces the damage caused by sudden changes in weather.
More demand in the market due to 85 percent pulp remaining
Gandaki Sampada is a late ripening variety, which is known for its large size and attractive fruits. Its average fruit weight ranges from 35 to 42 grams. The biggest feature of this variety is its resistance to fruit cracking. Apart from this, the amount of pulp in it ranges from 80 to 85 percent, due to which its demand is likely to be high in the market.
One tree yields 130 to 140 kg
Gandaki Lalima is also a late ripening improved variety. The pulp is very sweet, whose TSS has been found to be 18 to 19 degrees Brix. Its aroma and taste make it special among consumers. According to scientists, under favorable conditions it is possible to produce 130 to 140 kg per tree from this variety.
NRCL officials say that the expansion of these new varieties will benefit not only Bihar but also the farmers of other litchi producing states of the country. This will make litchi production more stable, export possibilities will increase and farmers’ income will increase significantly.
