Fresh pomegranate, Usage/Application : Human Consumption

There is tremendous potential for exports of pomegranate from India and it is fact that India is largest producer of pomegranates in the world. Moreover, India produces finest edible quality of pomegranates which are available almost throughout the year. The major Markets of India’s pomegranate during the year 2011-12 were UAE, Bangladesh, Netherlands, UK, Saudi Arabia and Russia Maharashtra is the leading producer of pomegranate. Ganesh, Bhagwa, Ruby, Arakta and Mridula are the different varieties of pomegranates produced in Maharashtra. In India, pomegranate is commercially cultivated in Solapur, Sangli, Nasik, Ahmednagar, Pune, Dhule, Aurangabad, Satara, Osmanabad and Latur districts of Maharashtra; The total production of pomegranate is concentrated mainly in the West Maharashtra Maharashtra is the leading State with 82 thousands hactor area under pomegranate cultivation in India. India is the largest producer of pomegranates in the world. India produces finest varieties of pomegranate having soft seeds, very less acids and very attractive colour of the fruits and grains.With adoption of different “bahars”, India can supply pomegranates almost throughout the year.Maximum cultivation of pomegranate is in states of Maharashtra and North West Karnataka which are very close to the West port of Mumbai for exporting to Gulf and European countries.Quality of pomegranate is much superior to Spain and Iran in edible quality and attractiveness. Agri Export Zone for enhancing exports of pomegranate has been established in Maharashtra state.There is strong research support for scientific cultivation of pomegranate like National Research Center for Pomegranate, Solapur, MPKV, Rahuri in Maharashtra state.Pomegranate co-operative societies from Maharashtra state have formed an apex cooperative namely Maha Anar. Bhagwa variety has high acceptance in European market. Description of Commercially Grown Varieties Showing the varietal characteristics of commercially grown Pomegranates Variety/ Type Characteristics Ganesh This variety has pinkish yellow to reddish yellow rind colour, having light pink arils and soft seeds. Fruit weighs between 225-250 gms with medium T.S.S. Ruby The fruit skin is red in colour and weighs between 225-275 gms. The grains are soft, having high T.S.S. Arakta Fruits are dark red in colour with soft seeds and with high T.S.S. Bhagwa The fruit is glossy red in colour with soft seeds and high T.S.S.Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Using disease free and quality plant material of improved cultivars. Adoption of high planting density. Proper canopy management.Integrated nutrient and water management.Keeping proper load of fruits on the tree. Timely control of pests and diseases by adopting IPM practice