A major development in agricultural infrastructure is taking shape in Uttar Pradesh as the state prepares to set up its first Dragon Fruit Center of Excellence. Located in Dewari village of Mirzapur district, this upcoming facility will also be the second such specialized center in India. Developed at a total sanctioned cost of Rs 15 crore, the project recently received its initial fund allocation of Rs 5 crore on July 25. Following the completion of mandatory tender procedures, construction work will begin across a 40 bigha land area.
High Quality Disease Free Plants and Certified Seeds
The primary mandate of this center in Dewari is to accelerate the adoption of dragon fruit cultivation using modern agricultural practices. A key benefit for local growers will be the availability of certified, high quality, and disease free dragon fruit saplings. Farmers frequently face financial setbacks when commercially purchased plants succumb to diseases or decay prematurely. By offering healthy and tested planting material, the facility aims to safeguard investments, boost crop yields, and enhance farm incomes.
40 Bigha Facility Featuring Advanced Polyhouses and Research Units
Spanning roughly 40 bigha of land, the Center of Excellence will serve as a dedicated hub for advanced research, seed production, and modern horticultural demonstrations. The infrastructure will feature high-tech polyhouses to control environmental factors and maintain optimal growing conditions year round. This infrastructure will allow farmers from Mirzapur and surrounding regions to access cutting-edge farming technologies directly within the state.
Comprehensive Farmers Training in Scientific Cultivation Techniques
Beyond plant propagation, the center will function as a regional training institute for farmers arriving from Uttar Pradesh as well as neighboring states. Agricultural scientists will conduct practical sessions covering scientific crop management, soil nutrition, modern drip irrigation, and efficient harvesting techniques. This hands-on guidance is structured to solve operational challenges on the field and help growers achieve higher commercial efficiency.
India Second Specialized Dragon Fruit Hub After Bengaluru
At present, India only operating Center of Excellence for Dragon Fruit is hosted at the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research in Bengaluru. The Mirzapur facility will mark the second such institution nationwide and the very first in Uttar Pradesh. District Horticulture Officer Mewaram noted that Mirzapur has gradually emerged as a prominent regional hub for dragon fruit farming. The establishment of this dedicated center will provide local cultivators with direct access to superior seeds, modern techniques, and ongoing technical support. Construction progress will move swiftly once formal administrative formalities conclude.
