Farmers Reap Rich Rewards with High-Density ‘Kesar’ Mango Plantations

Image Source: Grain Feed and milling Magazine

Farmers across Maharashtra and Karnataka are witnessing a significant transformation in mango cultivation, as high-density and ultra-high density planting (UHDP) methods for the ‘Kesar’ variety deliver record yields and soaring profits.

Key Highlights:

The area under ‘Kesar’ mango cultivation in Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district has expanded nearly fivefold since 2022, rising from 729 hectares to 3,470 hectares in 2024-25. Similar trends are reported in Jalna and Beed districts.
High-density planting now accommodates 580 to 622 trees per hectare, compared to traditional spacing of 33x33 feet. The new method uses 14x5 feet spacing, significantly increasing plant density.
Yields have jumped from an average of 3-4 tonnes per acre in traditional orchards to 6-14 tonnes per acre with high-density methods. Some farmers report consistent yields of up to 10 tonnes per acre under UHDP.
The ‘Kesar’ cluster in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar exported around 1,500 metric tonnes last year, highlighting the region’s growing role in mango exports.
Farmers benefit from quicker returns, as ‘Kesar’ saplings start bearing fruit within 4-5 years.

In Karnataka’s Koppal district, ‘Kesar’ mango cultivation has expanded from 1,300 to 5,000 hectares in eight years, with projected yields of 60,000 tonnes this season. Farmers have reported earnings of ₹14 lakh from a seven-acre farm, with prices reaching ₹200 per kg for premium quality fruit.

The adoption of UHDP requires an investment of about ₹1 lakh per acre but can yield profits up to ₹6 lakh per acre, thanks to higher productivity and efficient resource use.

Support from horticulture departments, improved marketing, and favorable climate have established regions like Koppal and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar as major ‘Kesar’ mango production hubs.

With more farmers embracing these modern techniques, the ‘Kesar’ mango industry is poised for continued growth, offering a lucrative and sustainable future for Indian horticulture.

Source: Rediff News, Times of India, Village Square, AgriFarming, GetFarms