JEYPORE: After coffee, strawberry cultivation is emerging as a major livelihood option for farmers in Koraput. The crop is well suited to the region’s climate and offers high returns compared to many traditional crops.
The Kechela Agriculture Producer Group in Koraput block has taken the lead in processing strawberries into value-added products, including jelly, jam and squash, on a pilot basis. The products are being processed and packaged at the production unit set up by ORMAS at Marichamal and marketed under the ‘Koraput Kolab’ brand. The initiative has enhanced income prospects for farmers and members of self-help groups.
Around 40 people, including farmers and women from self-help groups, are engaged at the production unit. Officials said the horticulture department, along with a voluntary organisation, has been promoting strawberry cultivation by providing technical guidance, subsidies and planting materials, while ORMAS has extended marketing support. The group is now exploring opportunities to sell its products through retail outlets and online platforms.
Strawberry cultivation is also expanding rapidly in Semiliguda block, where farmers have taken up the crop in villages such as Sundiput, Putsil, Malikhudi and Pakjhola with government support. Around 4.95 lakh saplings have been planted across the block.
A farmer from Putsil village, Rajib Jani, said, “Strawberry cultivation has encouraged us to adopt new farming practices. With proper support and training, we are confident of earning sustainable income.”
Similarly, strawberry cultivation has been introduced for the first time in Kaugauda village under Dasmantpur block, covering 25 acres and benefiting around 30 tribal farmers. The initiative, supported by the horticulture department, includes the provision of saplings, irrigation pumps and training.
“We never imagined growing strawberries in our village. With government support and training, we are optimistic that this crop will improve our livelihoods,” said Padalam Gadaba, a farmer from Kaugauda.
Deputy director of Horticulture, Koraput, Sudam Charan Biswal said the region’s climate is favourable for strawberry cultivation. “Farmers have shown keen interest and collective participation. This initiative will help them become self-reliant and enhance their income in the coming years,” he said.
Officials noted that strawberry plants yield fruit for up to three years, making the crop a viable long-term option. This year, strawberry is expected to be cultivated in an area of around 75 acres across different blocks, officials said.