There is a fruit in India, which is not just delicious but also has the power to change lives. This fruit has the ability to provide livelihoods, education, and improve the living conditions of communities.

Its aroma is so potent that it cuts through the congested slums. Remarkably versatile, it is used both in fresh and dried form. Can you guess what fruit this is? Let’s explore together!.

The Fruit

The fruit we are discussing is none other than the Mango. Yes, you heard it right! It might be surprising, but the aroma of mangoes is so strong that it travels through the streets of slums and brings happiness to the people living there.

This fruit is not just a source of food but a pathway for better living conditions and a better future.

Mango Cultivation in India

India is the largest producer of mangoes in the world, with over 40% of the total production. The country produces around 20 million tonnes of mangoes annually.

Several states in India are popular for their mango production, including Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

The process of mango cultivation in India begins by preparing the soil for plantation. The saplings are grown in a nursery and later transplanted to the main field. The trees start to give fruits after three to four years of plantation.

Mangoes are harvested during the summer months, and the fruits ripen by the end of May or early June. There are several varieties of mangoes grown in India, such as Alphonso, Kesar, Badami, and Langra. Each variety has a distinct flavour and aroma.

Mango and Economy

Mango is not just a fruit but an important source of livelihood for people living in rural areas. It offers employment opportunities to several people, right from the nursery stage until the final sales of the fruit.

According to research, mango farming generates more than $2 billion in revenue. This revenue helps the farmers to improve their living conditions, educate their children, and invest in better equipment for cultivation.

Lucknow and Saharanpur are two cities in Uttar Pradesh where the government provides training to farmers in mango cultivation. The training sessions cover various aspects of mango farming, like fertilizers, pesticides, pruning, and harvesting.

The government also offers subsidies on farming equipment and tools to encourage farmers to cultivate mangoes.

Uses of Mango

Mangoes are a versatile fruit, and their uses range from culinary to medicinal. In India, mango pulp is used in various dishes, including curries, salads, drinks, and desserts. The raw mangoes are also used in pickles, chutneys, and sauces.

Mango leaves are also used in various Indian recipes, and they are believed to have medicinal properties. The leaves are used to make tea, which is believed to be helpful in controlling diabetes, hypertension, and other ailments.

Mango leaves are also used in traditional Ayurvedic medicines.

Mango and Health

Mango is not just delicious; it is also good for health. The fruit is rich in various vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, C, and E. It also contains dietary fibre, which can help in digestion and bowel movement.

Mangoes are also rich in antioxidants, which can help in boosting the immune system and preventing cancer.

Mango and the Environment

Mango cultivation is a sustainable practice that has several environmental benefits. Mango trees help in reducing soil erosion, conserving water, and enhancing the biodiversity. Mango trees also help in providing shelter to birds and other animals.

Moreover, mango farming encourages the use of organic fertilizers, which is beneficial for the soil and the environment.

Mango – Conclusion

Mango is not just a fruit; it is a symbol of hope and progress. Its aroma cuts through the slums, bringing joy and happiness to the people living there.

Mango cultivation provides livelihoods, education, and better living conditions to communities in rural India. It is not just a fruit; it’s a way of life!.