Solapur region is known for cultivation of better quality table and raisin grapes. In this region, pruning time is adjusted based on the market demand. In Pandharpur taluka, Puluj and Kasegaon area grows mainly elongated grape varieties (Sonaka, Manik Chaman, Super Sonaka, SSN, etc.) and Thompson Seedless and its clone to same extent. Fruit pruning in these area is generally done during December and the fruit is harvested in May.
Mr. Subhash Tate from Shelve village (Tal-Pandharpur) planted ICAR-NRCG released juice variety “Manjari Medika” grafted on Dogridge rootstock in 0.4 acre area during 2019. Being first year crop, the vine were in full bearing stage with uniform bunch size. To show the performance of this variety, ICAR-NRC Grapes, Pune organized grape day at the farm of Mr. Subhash Tate on 09.03.2020. This program was organized in collaboration with Maharashtra Rajya Draksha Bagaitdar Sangh (MRDBS), Solapur region.
During the program, the grape growers arrived from different places visited Manjari Medika and Super Sonaka plot and seen the performance. After the field visit, Dr. A .k. Sharma, Principal Scientist (Hort) addressed the farmers regarding the special features of this variety. He appraised on “Zero Waste Processing” for better return. He highlighted brand value and called for joining Agri-Business Incubation Centre of ICAR-NRCG to adopt Manjari Medika based technologies.
Mr. Shivaji Pawar, Vice President, MRDBS, Pune appreciated the initiatives being taken by ICAR-NRCG for betterment of grape industry, He Stressed upon standardization of package of practices for clones identified by grape growers.
Dr.S.S.Magar, Ex Vice Chancellor, Dr.Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli was invited as Chief guest for the program. During his address, he narrated importance of water in agriculture and shares his experience with grape growers.
Dr. R .G. Somkuwar, Director, ICAR-NRC for Grapes, Pune updated on practices for growing “Manjari Medika” and also other varieties being grown in this region. He stressed on doubling the farmers income through zero waste processing concept. He advised the growers to minimize the uses of PGR for obtaining better quality raisin.
Mr. Subhash Tate in his vote of thanks, expressed satisfaction about his interaction with ICAR-NRCG and the support received during the last two years. Approximately 80 farmers attended the program.
