Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Banana Cultivation
Why in the News?
India has seen a 10x increase in banana exports over the past decade and now targets $1 billion in exports within the next five years. In the fiscal year 2022-23, India’s banana production was estimated at around 34.9 million metric tons.
Do you know?
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Banana Cultivation in India
- Bananas thrive in tropical and subtropical climates with temperatures between 15°C and 35°C and high humidity.
- Common varieties: Dwarf Cavendish, Robusta, Grand Naine, Nendran, Rasthali, Poovan, Red Banana, Monthan, Safed Velchi, Lal Velchi, Ardhapuri, Karpuravalli, Elakki Bale, Basrai, Amrit Sagar, Champa, Chinia, Malbhog, Rajapuri, and Yelakki.
- The crop requires well–drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.5–7.5 and 1,800–2,000 mm of water annually, often supported by drip irrigation.
- Fusarium Wilt is the most common disease affecting Bananas.
- Seasons for Planting:
- Maharashtra: Kharif (June–July) and Rabi (October–November).
- Tamil Nadu: February–April and November–December.
- Kerala: Rainfed crop (April–May) and irrigated crop (August–September).
Socioeconomic Significance of Banana
- Economic Impact: Major contributor to India’s agricultural GDP and the world’s largest banana producer (26.5% of global production).
- Employment: Provides livelihoods for millions across cultivation, processing, and export sectors.
- Nutritional Value: A key food crop rich in potassium, vitamins, and energy, supporting food and nutritional security.
- Export Potential: High demand for varieties like Grand Naine boosts foreign exchange earnings and supports value-added industries.
PYQ:[2011] Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered? (a) Andaman Islands (b) Anaimalai Forests (c) Maikala Hills (d) Tropical rain forests of northeast |
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