Dragon fruit is a superfood, low in calories but packed with fibre, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Antioxidants defend cells from free radicals, preventing chronic diseases and ageing.
Karnataka leads in dragon fruit production, averaging 8 to 10 tonnes per hectare annually. The fruit is cultivated organically, utilising drip irrigation techniques.
Dragon fruit ranks 2nd in India for area and production. Cultivated across 18.50 hectares, producing about 140.89 tonnes, mainly in Kottayam, Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Kollam districts.
Dragon fruit cultivation in Tamil Nadu started in the late 1990s but remains a minor contributor. It spans less than 400 hectares, primarily relying on imports from countries such as Vietnam and Thailand.
Maharashtra produces 20% of India's dragon fruit, a major share. Around 800 hectares in Maharashtra grow dragon fruit, mainly in districts like Nashik, Pune, Satara, and Sangli.
Gujarat produces 70% of India's dragon fruit, with key areas in water-scarce regions like Kutch. It exports to London and Bahrain, boosting India's exotic fruit trade.