Maharashtra Aims To Boost Pomegranate Exports

Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharane has called for a unified effort to establish Indian pomegranates as a high-quality product in the global market.

At the International Pomegranate Conference-2026 in Pune, Bharane emphasized that increasing production alone is not enough. He stressed the need for a greater focus on quality, productivity, exports, processing, and value addition to improve farmers' incomes.

Maharashtra is the leading producer of pomegranates in India, accounting for around 1.05 lakh hectares of cultivation and producing approximately 12.24 lakh metric tonnes annually. The state contributes nearly 43% of India's total pomegranate production.

Bharane highlighted the challenges faced by pomegranate growers, including disease and pest attacks, unpredictable weather, fluctuating market prices, and difficulties in exports. He emphasized the need to address why farmers often fail to get adequate returns despite good production.

The minister also called for strengthening the entire value chain, including post-harvest management, cold storage, processing, and value addition. The International Pomegranate Conference-2026 has attracted over 2,000 delegates, including scientists from Italy, the US, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, besides growers and experts from several Indian states.

The conference, being held from September 6 to 8, aims to bring together stakeholders to discuss ways to improve pomegranate production and exports. Bharane's call for a coordinated effort is expected to boost the pomegranate industry in Maharashtra and establish Indian pomegranates as a global brand.

The pomegranate industry is significant for Maharashtra, and the state government's efforts to improve production and exports are likely to have a positive impact on farmers' incomes. With the right strategies and support, Indian pomegranates can become a major player in the global market.

In the long run, Maharashtra's focus on quality and exports is expected to benefit not only the state but also the country as a whole. As the demand for high-quality pomegranates continues to grow globally, India can capitalize on this trend and establish itself as a major exporter of pomegranates.

The success of Maharashtra's pomegranate industry will depend on the ability of stakeholders to work together and address the challenges faced by growers. With the government's support and the participation of farmers, scientists, and entrepreneurs, Indian pomegranates can become a global brand, benefiting farmers and the economy as a whole.