The 10th edition of the Koppal Mango Mela, organized by the horticulture department, commenced on Tuesday at the office premises of the joint director of horticulture in Koppal and will continue until May 22. The event marks a significant milestone for the region's mango cultivation, which has expanded to over 6,500 hectares in Koppal district.
Mango Varieties and Farmer Participation
More than 100 farmers have set up registered stalls at the mela, showcasing and selling over 200 mango varieties along with a range of value-added products. Among the most sought-after varieties is Kesar, which has emerged as the leading choice among consumers. Other notable varieties on display include Dasheri, Totapuri, Mallika, Beneshan, Sindhuri, Imam Pasand, Rasapuri, Swarnarekha, Apoosu, and Punasa.
Miyazaki Mango: A Major Attraction
A major highlight this year is the Miyazaki mango, regarded as one of the world's costliest varieties. While it is priced at around ₹2.5 lakh per kg in international markets, farmers cultivating the Japanese variety in Koppal are offering it for ₹2,500 to ₹3,000 per kg. Officials confirmed that several customers have already paid advances to purchase the fruit, indicating strong demand.
Additional Offerings and Activities
The event features mango seekarane, pickles prepared and packed by farmers, processed mango products, and a photo exhibition tracing the journey of the mango mela from 2016 to 2026. Officials stated that more than 30 free stalls have been provided to farmers, while over 100 indigenous and foreign mango varieties are being showcased. More than 10 horticulture farmer producer companies and district HOPCOMS units are participating in the mela.
Scientific Ripening Demonstration
The horticulture department is also demonstrating scientific fruit-ripening methods developed by the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru. Farmers are being introduced to ‘en-ripe’ punch-hole pouches, which naturally ripen 10 kg of mangoes within 48 hours using ethylene. This technique aims to improve post-harvest management and reduce losses.
Official Statements
Krishna C Ukkund, joint director of horticulture, Koppal, said, “Koppal district’s horticulture sector is expanding every year and mango cultivation has crossed 6,500 hectares. The mela is being organised to help farmers directly market quality fruits to consumers at reasonable prices.” The event was visited by MP K Rajasekhar Hitnal, MLC Hemalatha Nayak, deputy commissioner Suresh B Itnal, CEO Varnit Negi, and several other officials.
