THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state on Wednesday declared
jackfruit as its official fruit. Agriculture minister
V S Sunilkumar, who announced this in the assembly, said steps would be taken to promote the fruit as a brand in the country and abroad by showcasing its qualities.
Read also: Jackfruit: Jack of all fruits
The minister said the state could generate an annual income of Rs 15,000 crore through the sale of the fruit and its value-added products.
"Over 30 crore jackfruit is being produced annually in the state. Grown naturally without using any fertiliser or pesticide, it is fully organic and it has the potential to be sold as highly-profitable value-added products," minister added.
Sunilkumar said the government would distribute more jackfruit saplings among the public to grow in their households. The agricultural office in Ambalavayal, Wayanad will be the research station for the crop.
The state had earlier announced elephant as its official animal, great hornbill bird, kanikkonna flower and pearl spot fish.
A jackfruit tree
