Monk fruit, also called Luo Han Guo, is capturing the attention of farmers in India. This natural sweetener is gaining popularity worldwide. It offers a low-calorie alternative to sugar. For many Indian farmers, it could be a new source of income. The fruit is currently being trialed in Himachal Pradesh, where conditions are suitable for its growth.
The Council of Scientific Research and Industrial Technology-Institute of Himalayan Bio-resource Technology (CSIR-IHBT) has started field trials for monk fruit in Kullu. This is exciting news for farmers like Manav Khullar, who planted 50 seedlings in his fields. The CSIR-IHBT signed a Material Transfer Agreement with him to support this trial.
The economic potential of monk fruit is significant. Estimates suggest that farmers could earn between Rs 3 lakh to Rs 3.5 lakh per hectare. Dr Probir Kumar Pal, a principal scientist at CSIR-IHBT, explained that monk fruit is a perennial crop. It can live for about four to five years. Farmers can expect to see fruit within eight to nine months after planting.
Monk fruit thrives in mountainous areas with a mean temperature of 16–20 °C and high humidity. The plant’s name comes from Buddhist monks who were the first to use it. Over the years, attempts to grow monk fruit in other countries have failed due to its unique growing requirements. However, the CSIR-IHBT is making strides with innovative planting techniques to improve germination rates.
The sweet taste of monk fruit is due to mogrosides, which are 300 times sweeter than sugar. This makes it a popular choice for those looking to reduce sugar intake. In Japan and the USA, mogroside has been approved as a safe sweetener. The growing global demand for monk fruit presents a promising market for Indian farmers.
Despite the high demand, monk fruit is mainly cultivated in China. However, India has the right agroclimatic conditions for its growth. The CSIR-IHBT is committed to helping farmers tap into this lucrative market. They have developed methods for planting, harvesting, and post-harvest management to ensure that farmers can maximize their yield.
The health benefits of monk fruit are also noteworthy. Excessive sugar intake can lead to serious health issues like diabetes and heart disease. The World Health Organization reports that around 346 million people worldwide are diabetic. In contrast, monk fruit is a natural sweetener with no harmful side effects. It could be the answer to the rising demand for sugar substitutes.
For Indian farmers, monk fruit presents both an economic opportunity and a chance to promote healthier eating habits. The successful cultivation of this fruit could change the landscape of farming in India. With the right support and climate, farmers have the potential to thrive in this new market.
Stay informed and consider how monk fruit could fit into your farming plans. As this sweet superfood gains traction, farmers across India may soon find themselves reaping the rewards of this innovative crop.