Bidar farmers thrive after opting for watermelon cultivation

Kalaburagi: Agricultural communities are diversifying by incorporating horticulture alongside rain-fed crops, with watermelons weighing 5 to 8 kg flourishing across the expansive farmlands of Bidar district. The refreshing watermelon, known for its cooling properties, sees substantial sales during the summer months. Farmers have already begun marketing their produce and have dedicated approximately 910 hectares in the district to watermelon cultivation, drawing significant interest.
Farmers are witnessing substantial watermelon harvests. It is noteworthy that both young and veteran agriculturists are gravitating towards horticultural crops.
Summer season in the district sees widespread watermelon cultivation, with its climate being conducive. Farmers are achieving yields of 25 to 30 tonnes per hectare, with market rates at Rs 7 to 8 per kilogramme. According to horticulture officials, watermelon cultivators are receiving double returns.
Bhalki taluk has 341 hectares dedicated to watermelon cultivation. Despite increased interest in horticulture alongside rain-fed crops, locals indicate limited participation due to insufficient knowledge. Hulasur taluk has 14 hectares under watermelon cultivation, while Bidar has 178, Basavakalyan 146, Humanabad 91, Chittaguppa 50, Aurad 49, and Kamalnagar 41 hectares respectively.
Farmers are cultivating varieties including Melody, Utkarsha, Dilkus, Sugar Baby, and Arca Manik, with Bhalki taluk showing the highest progress. Locals believe that enhanced guidance from horticulture department could improve cultivation practices.
Speaking to TOI, Vishwanath, deputy director of horticulture department in Bidar confirmed 910 hectares of watermelon cultivation across the district, with farmers achieving significant yield and profits.
Sai Patil, a novice farmer from Hazanala village in Bhalki taluk, achieved success in watermelon cultivation, supplying to Bengaluru. Using drip irrigation, he got 30 quintals per acre across two acres, selling at Rs 7.75 per kilogramme.