The Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture (CISH), Lucknow is set to introduce two new varieties of mango in vibrant colours.
The varieties ‘Awadh Samridhi’ and ‘Awadh Madhurima’ are currently undergoing field trials.
The new varieties will expand India’s diverse repertoire of mango, which is fondly known as the king of fruits.
According to T Damodaran, CISH Director, ‘Awadh Samridhi’ is a climate-resilient hybrid variety that bears fruit regularly.
Its vibrant color enhances its appeal, with each fruit weighing around 300 grams. The medium-sized tree, suitable for intensive gardening, reaches 15-20 feet after 15 years, making it easy to manage. Its ripening season falls between July and August.
‘Awadh Madhurima’ is also undergoing field trials, and may take additional time before being introduced.
Due to their attractive colors, average size, and extended shelf life, these varieties hold strong export potential, especially to markets in Europe and the United States, where colorful mango varieties is preferred.
Additionally, they are likely to fetch higher prices in the local markets. Previously, CISH developed two notable mango varieties, ‘Ambika’ and ‘Arunika’.
Notably, all four varieties developed by CISH in recent years are distinguished by their vibrant colors.
Developing a new mango variety takes almost two decades. In the initial phase, trials are conducted within the developing institute.
Once satisfactory results are obtained, the variety is sent for trials at other institutes across the country. Only after receiving positive feedback from multiple locations is the variety officially released.
In addition to traditional varieties, Indian scientists have developed commercially valuable mango varieties over the years.
Notable examples include: Arunima, Surya, Pratibha, Shrestha, Pitambar, Lalima, Deepshikha, and Manohari developed at Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, as well as Suprabhat, Anmol, Uday, Puneet, Aruna, and Neelachal Kesari developed at Indian Horticultural Research Institute (Bengaluru).
UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath envisions transforming the state into a major hub for agricultural and horticultural exports. UP is a leading mango producer.
To facilitate faster transportation of agri goods to export centres, a network of expressways and waterways apart from dry ports and logistics hubs are being developed.