Regular Update
ATM News Network: Owing to the relentless dedication and unwavering commitment of farmers, grape cultivation has expanded to cover a vast expanse of 4.5 lakh acres. However, these hard-earned efforts often fall victim to natural adversities. In light of this, NCP Supremo Sharad Pawar has fervently called upon the government to take a proactive step by announcing a substantial 50 percent subsidy on crop covers for grape orchards.
The 63rd annual Grape Council of Maharashtra Rajya Draksh Bagaitdar Sangh (MRDBS) was recently convened at a prominent hotel in Pune, marking a significant event on the agricultural calendar. Addressing the attendees during the inauguration ceremony, Pawar emphasised the necessity of his proposal. Noteworthy figures such as MRDBS President Shivajirao Pawar, Vice President Kailas Bhosale, Treasurer Sunil Pawar, and Chandrakant Landage, President of the Science Committee of the council, were present at the event. Distinguished personalities from across the globe, including Dr GS Prakash, former Chief Scientist of IHRI, Nagpal Lohakare of APEDA, Kailas Mote, Director of Horticulture, and renowned scientists Clouse Brakmayor from Brazil, Baltomeez Eniola from Poland, and Cathal Dense from Spain, also graced the occasion with their presence.
Pawar continued to elucidate, "Founded in 1966 in Baramati, MRDBS has now burgeoned into an organisation boasting a membership of over 33,000 grape cultivators. This association consistently champions the concerns and requisitions of grape growers before the government. It stands as a unique entity in the nation, distinguished by its scientific disposition, while simultaneously aiding farmers in achieving commercial success."
Shivajirao Pawar, President of MRDBS, expounded on the escalating costs of production, drawing a parallel with China's strategy of placing its entire grape production under protective crop covers. This approach has effectively curbed production expenses for China. In contrast, the costs incurred by Indian grape growers rise annually. Nevertheless, Maharashtra maintains its leading stance in grape exports, commanding a dominant 98 percent share within the country. The export volume has reached an impressive 2.67 lakh tonnes, generating a turnover of approximately Rs 2,543 crores.
Dr Mote, in interaction with attending farmers at the conference, affirmed the commitment to fortifying grape growers. Novel schemes geared towards their benefit are currently being implemented. Notably, efforts are underway to establish a dedicated process for raisins in collaboration with APEDA. Dr Mote assured attendees that the input from MRDBS would be diligently considered in the formulation of insurance schemes tailored for horticultural crops.
