Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda has formally urged the central government to establish a dedicated national board for the promotion and development of three key indigenous fruit crops. In a significant move highlighting the importance of traditional agriculture, Gowda has written a letter to the Union Minister, pressing for focused institutional support.
Championing India's Heritage Crops
In his detailed communication, the former Prime Minister emphasized the unique status of tamarind, jackfruit, and jamun (Indian black plum) in the country's agricultural and cultural fabric. He described these fruits as sacred and nutritionally rich crops that have been cultivated across the Indian subcontinent for centuries. Gowda's appeal underscores the need to move beyond viewing these merely as local produce and to recognize their national economic and nutritional potential.
The Core Proposal: A Dedicated Regulatory Body
The central request in the letter is the creation of a National Board specifically for tamarind, jackfruit, and jamun. Such a board would be tasked with formulating comprehensive policies, driving research and development, and creating robust market linkages for these fruits. The proposal aims to streamline efforts currently scattered across different ministries and departments, providing a single, powerful focal point for their advancement.
Gowda's intervention, dated and reported on 19 December 2025, brings official attention to the untapped commercial and health benefits of these native species. He argues that with structured support, these crops can significantly contribute to farmer incomes, food security, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices rooted in Indian tradition.
Potential Impact and the Road Ahead
The establishment of a specialized board could have far-reaching consequences. It would likely lead to increased investment in horticultural research for higher-yield and disease-resistant varieties. Furthermore, it would facilitate the development of value-added products, from jackfruit-based meats to tamarind concentrates and jamun wellness products, for both domestic and international markets.
By framing these fruits as nutritional powerhouses and cultural heritage, Gowda's letter makes a strong case for their strategic importance. The call now rests with the Union Ministry to consider this proposal, which aligns with broader national goals of promoting indigenous crops, supporting farmers, and enhancing nutritional diversity. The move is seen as a step towards formalizing the ecosystem around these traditionally grown yet under-institutionalized fruit crops.
