Innovative farmer selections revitalizing jamun cultivation in Karnataka

Abstract

Jamun (Syzygium cumini Skeels) is an underutilized fruit tree valued for its nutritional richness and potential in dryland horticulture. In Nagadasanahalli village, Bengaluru Rural district, farmer-scientist Dr N C Patel has selected and conserved three elite types, Patel Jumbo, Patel Samruddhi, and Patel Akal, which have been scientifically characterized by ICAR–IIHR. These selections differ in fruit size, sweetness, pulp colour, and maturity period, offering advantages for both fresh consumption and processing. Patel Jumbo produces large, sweet fruits; Patel Samruddhi, with purple pulp, is rich in anthocyanins and phenolics; while Patel Akal extends the harvesting season into July–August. Biochemical profiling highlights their high antioxidant activity, making them promising for nutraceutical applications. From a farmer’s perspective, farmer-led selection of jamun represents a practical, low-input, and climate-resilient livelihood option capable of generating substantial economic returns in rainfed and dryland regions. The complementary strengths of Patel Jumbo, Patel Samruddhi, and Patel Akal enable farmers to cater simultaneously to fresh fruit, processing, and extended-season markets, thereby diversifying income sources and reducing market and climatic risks.