PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Bageshwar
After succeeding in cultivation of pink coloured cauliflower in Bageshwar, the Horticulture department is now preparing to conduct trials of cultivating yellow Carotena cauliflowers in the district. After farmers experienced better production and higher rates for pink cauliflower, the department has decided to conduct trials of Carotena cultivation.
According to sources, the climate and soil in the district have proved to be conducive for farming of coloured and nutritious vegetables. Pink cauliflower cultivated last year yielded more than 30 quintals of the vegetable. Farmers got Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kilogramme in the market for this variety. This successful experiment has encouraged the department to move ahead with the cultivation of coloured vegetables. Officials said that the department has identified progressive farmers for cultivation of Carotena cauliflower in the district. These farmers will be provided improved quality seeds free of cost. In addition to this, the department’s technical team will visit the selected farmers and inform the farmers about sowing, maintaining, production and quality related aspects. Along with providing the seeds free of cost, the department intends to provide full technical assistance to the chosen farmers. This will enable better production, ensure quality and increased acceptability in the market.
In addition to its striking appearance, the yellow cauliflower is also rich in nutritional value with high beta carotene and vitamin A. the increasing demand for such vegetables can create new opportunities in the market for farmers.
Ayurvedic medical officer Azal Patel said that such coloured vegetables contain various nutritious elements and antioxidants. Carotenoid and vitamin A in the yellow cauliflower are beneficial for health. District horticulture officer Harish Chandra Arya said that Carotena trials are being started after the successful cultivation of pink cauliflower in the district.
An attempt is being made to give new direction to farming in the district through improved seeds, technical guidance and alignment to market demand.
