The Uttarakhand government has announced an 80 percent subsidy to promote dragon fruit cultivation across the state, positioning it as a viable cash crop even for unirrigated land. Under the newly implemented Dragon Fruit Policy 2025, farmers can receive substantial financial support to establish orchards with minimal risk from wild animals, a persistent challenge in hill agriculture.
As per the policy, farmers can get up to 80 percent subsidy on an estimated cost of ₹8 lakh per acre for setting up dragon fruit orchards. This translates to a subsidy of ₹6.40 lakh per acre, while farmers will need to contribute the remaining ₹1.60 lakh. The scheme will remain in force from 2025 to 2028.
Officials said that farmers in Udham Singh Nagar, Haridwar, Nainital, Bageshwar, Pauri, Dehradun and Tehri districts will be eligible for the scheme. So far, dragon fruit cultivation has seen better adoption in Udham Singh Nagar and Haridwar districts due to favorable terrain and market access.
The horticulture department has set a target to expand dragon fruit cultivation over 228 acres and benefit around 450 farmers under this policy. A minimum of five nali land is mandatory to avail benefits. The government aims to shift farmers towards high-value crops to improve farm incomes, though experts point out that proper market linkage and storage infrastructure will be crucial for long-term success.
Dragon fruit is considered nutritionally rich and is known for boosting immunity, aiding digestion, improving heart health, and helping control blood sugar levels. It is also valued for its antioxidant properties and growing demand in urban markets.
Agriculture and Horticulture Minister Ganesh Joshi said dragon fruit cultivation will significantly increase farmers’ income and confirmed that plant saplings will be prepared at the Sitarganj nursery. However, farmers await clarity on assured procurement and price stability, without which the scheme’s impact may remain limited.
