Rajasthan Set for Banana Boom: Scientific Cultivation Boosts Farmer Profits

• Banana cultivation, especially the Robusta and G-9 varieties, offers high yields and profitability for farmers, thriving in temperatures between 20-35 degrees Celsius.
• Tissue culture-prepared G-9 variety is ideal for Rajasthan's climate, suitable for southeastern regions, and reduces disease risk while ensuring uniform crop growth.
• Expert Dinesh Jakhar advises applying 25 tonnes of cow dung/compost per hectare and specific amounts of Carbofuran, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potash per plant, mixed 30 cm away.
• Daily water requirement is 3-6 mm; drip irrigation is recommended for water-scarce areas to ensure efficient water use.
• Pest and disease management includes controlling stem borers with Imidacloprid, caterpillars with pheromone traps, aphids with Dimethoate, Sigatoka leaf spot with Carbendazim, and Bunchy Top with Imidacloprid/Metasystox.

Why It Matters: Scientific banana cultivation methods, proper variety selection, and pest management can significantly boost farmer income in Rajasthan.