Sirsa, July 3: Haryana has recorded its first-ever fruit to receive a Geographical Indication tag after the Sirsa kinnow was granted the elite status. This certification is poised to substantially increase farmers’ income and enhance the fruit’s footprint in global markets. Much of the credit for this agricultural breakthrough is being given to the scientific training initiatives launched more than ten years ago through international collaboration.
The collaborative framework at the Indo-Israel Centre of Excellence at Mangiana village allowed local farmers to transition toward high-yield orchard management. Dr Ramesh Kumar, Deputy Director of Horticulture and incharge of the centre, asserted that experts introduced growers to advanced techniques such as drip irrigation, fertigation, high-density plantation and scientific nutrient management. Regular workshops focusing on systematic pruning, scientific irrigation, and precise fertilizer application have helped growers maximize their output over the years.
Local authorities expressed immense satisfaction with the unique characteristics that distinguished the fruit during the evaluation process. District Horticulture Officer Deen Mohammad maintained, “Sirsa kinnow is sweeter, juicier and larger in size than fruit grown in many other regions, helping it earn the GI recognition.” The application itself was pushed forward through the collaborative efforts of the Horticulture Department and the Farmer Producer Organisation of Khari Sureran village.
With production now reaching approximately 1.82 lakh metric tonnes annually, the region stands as a powerhouse for citrus cultivation. Industry specialists believe this new legal protection will solidify the crop’s commercial future. Horticulture and agriculture expert Gurjeet Singh Maan maintained that the GI recognition would further strengthen the Sirsa kinnow brand in domestic and international markets while ensuring better returns for growers.
