Pomegranate cultivation surges in Bengaluru region as farmers respond to market demand

Bengaluru's agricultural landscape is changing as farmers increasingly turn to pomegranate cultivation, driven by growing market demand and attractive prices. The shift has led to a sharp increase in production across both rural and urban districts of the city.

Currently, first-grade pomegranates fetch between ₹250 to ₹300 per kilogram, while second-grade fruit is priced at ₹150 to ₹170 per kilogram. These returns have encouraged farmers to expand their orchards significantly.

Traditionally, pomegranate farming in Karnataka was concentrated in the northern districts of Bagalkot, Vijayapura, and Koppal, which have semi-arid climates and suitable soil. However, new areas such as Nelamangala, Yelahanka, Rajanukunte, and Chickballapur have emerged as major hubs for the fruit, which is predominantly of the Bagwa variety.

Official data from the Horticulture Department show that the area under pomegranate cultivation in Bengaluru Rural has increased from 180 hectares in 2020-21 to 1,154 hectares in 2024-25, while production has risen from 1,663 metric tonnes to 12,692 metric tonnes over the same period. In Bengaluru Urban, the area has grown from 45 hectares to 127 hectares, with output rising from 850 metric tonnes to 2,588 metric tonnes.

Muniraju Byatha, a farmer from Rajanukunte, explained that Bengaluru's hot, dry, and red soil conditions are well-suited for pomegranate. He noted that the size and colour of the fruit here are larger and brighter than those from traditional regions. Byatha, who cultivates pomegranate on ten acres, stops watering his trees at the end of January. Each fruit weighs between 200 to 300 grams, and harvest begins in late August, with fruit reaching the market in September and October.

Another farmer, Chandra N.R. from Nagadasanahalli, introduced farm tourism last year, allowing urban visitors to pick fresh pomegranates. The initiative attracted health-conscious consumers, and he sold over four tonnes. This year, he plans to sell through agents.

Despite the success, farmers face challenges, particularly bacterial blight, locally known as Macche Roga. Krishnamurthy, Joint Director of the Horticulture Department (Planning), said that the disease causes dark oily spots on fruit, cracking, and can reduce yields by 50% to 100%. He advised minimal human intervention, cautioning against excessive fertiliser and water use, which can promote pathogens.

The expansion of pomegranate cultivation reflects a broader trend of farmers diversifying into high-value crops with strong market demand, contributing to the region's agricultural economy.