A grafting campaign in coastal Karnataka has underscored the deep-rooted culture of conserving fruit diversity, particularly jackfruit, in the region. Naina J A reports on how this initiative reflects local heritage and promotes sustainable horticulture.
Preserving Jackfruit Heritage
The campaign, centered on grafting techniques, aims to propagate unique jackfruit varieties native to coastal Karnataka. Local farmers and horticulturists have joined hands to ensure these varieties are not lost to modern monoculture practices.
Community Involvement
Participants learned grafting methods to multiply trees bearing high-quality fruits. The effort also serves as a living repository of jackfruit biodiversity, with many trees now thriving in community orchards.
One such orchard is the Jackfruit Progeny Orchard at the Horticulture College in Tamaka, Kolar, which houses Karnataka's first collection of jackfruit progeny. This orchard plays a key role in research and conservation.
Cultural Significance
Jackfruit holds a special place in coastal Karnataka's cuisine and traditions. The campaign not only safeguards genetic diversity but also revives interest in indigenous food sources, promoting food security and cultural identity.
Experts emphasize that such grassroots movements are vital for adapting to climate change, as local varieties often possess resilience to pests and weather extremes.
