From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Viticulture in India
Why in the News?
Despite concerns over high tariff rates that India applies on European wine, going up to 150%, Italy sees the Indian market, along with China, as a big window of opportunity for its signature wines.
About India’s Wine Market
- Wine accounts for only 2% of India’s alcohol market, while whiskey and beer dominate with 98%.
- India’s per capita wine consumption is just 9 ml—1/8000th of France’s.
- The domestic wine market is expanding at 20-30% annually, fueled by urban demand.
- Mumbai, Goa, Bengaluru, and Delhi-NCR account for 70% of total wine consumption.
- Goa leads in per capita wine consumption, driven by tourism and relaxed liquor policies.
- India has 110+ wineries, with Maharashtra and Karnataka leading in production.
- Sula Vineyards, India’s largest and most popular winery, produces over 1 million cases annually.
- Events like the Nashik Wine Festival and Bengaluru Wine Festival attract tourists and wine enthusiasts.
- Vineyard tourism is boosting the rural economy in Nashik and Nandi Hills of Karnataka.
Viticulture in India
- India’s wine industry revival in the 1980s and 1990s led to increased vineyard expansion, making viticulture a key agricultural activity.
- Nashik, Maharashtra, is known as the “Wine Capital of India”, producing over 80% of the country’s wine.
- The semi-sandy soil, dry winters, and proximity to major cities like Mumbai and Pune make it ideal for viticulture.
- The region has over 6,000–7,000 acres of vineyards dedicated to winemaking.
- Key Wine Regions in India:
- Nashik, Maharashtra – India’s largest wine-producing region, with optimal conditions for vineyards.
- Nandi Hills, Karnataka – A cooler climate and high altitude favor premium wine production.
- Himachal Pradesh & Tamil Nadu – Emerging high-altitude viticulture hubs.
- Types of Grapes Used in Indian Wines:
- Red Wine Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir.
- White Wine Grapes: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc.
- Indian Varieties: Anab-e-Shahi, Bangalore Blue, Thompson Seedless.
PYQ:[2002] Consider the following plants: 1. Bougainvillea 2. Carnations 3. Cocoa 4. Grapes
Which of these plants are propagated by stem cuttings? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 4 (d) 2 and 4 [2006] Consider the following statements: 1. Caffeine, a constituent of tea and coffee, is a diuretic. 2. Citric acid is used in soft drinks. 3. Ascorbic acid is essential for the formation of bones and teeth. 4. Citric acid is a good substitution for ascorbic acid in our nutrition. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2, only (b) 1, 2 and 3, only (c) 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4″ |
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