Kalyanpur, August 26: A new variety of bitter gourd, Dhruva 81 (Seminis), is emerging as a promising source of higher farm income for cultivators in Kalyanpur, with farmers reporting improved yields, strong market demand and better returns.
Fields across the agricultural belt are now dotted with bamboo trellises supporting lush green vines laden with glossy, dark-green gourds. Farmers say the variety has attracted buyers because of its size, colour and overall appearance.
At present, wholesale prices are around Rs 80 per kg, while retail markets are fetching nearly Rs 100 per kg, encouraging more cultivators to consider expanding bitter gourd cultivation.
Local farmers attribute the improved performance to quality seeds, proper land preparation, timely irrigation, balanced fertilisation and regular pest management. They say the plants can provide continuous harvests when maintained properly.
Amrit Das, a local grower, said the Dhruva 81 variety has given him better yields compared with earlier cultivation and helped increase his earnings amid strong market demand.
Another farmer, Sukumar Pal, said bitter gourd cultivation requires considerable labour and careful management, but the current returns make the effort worthwhile. He said he plans to increase the area under cultivation next season with better planning and farming practices.
Several other cultivators in Kalyanpur have reported similar experiences, saying favourable market demand has strengthened their confidence despite fluctuations in vegetable prices.
Farmers are now harvesting the crop early in the morning and transporting the produce to nearby markets to take advantage of prevailing prices. The success of the variety has also generated interest among other cultivators in the area.
Agricultural experts say the potential of bitter gourd cultivation could be further enhanced through access to quality planting material, modern cultivation techniques, timely technical guidance and improved marketing facilities. Such measures, they said, could help increase farm incomes while strengthening the supply of vegetables to local markets.
However, farmers caution that profitability remains dependent on weather conditions, input costs, pest attacks and market fluctuations. They called for stronger agricultural extension services and better market management to ensure remunerative prices and reduce production risks.
The experience with Dhruva 81 is gradually emerging as more than a successful crop cycle for Kalyanpur farmers. With productive vines and encouraging market prices, the variety is offering cultivators a potentially profitable avenue to diversify farm income and adopt more modern agricultural practices.
