The rise of the fruit that tastes like custard
Ashoka Shivareddy revived his family farm in Karnataka by cultivating drought-resistant custard apple, increasing production from 20 to 25 tonnes annually. A new hybrid variety, Arka Sahan, developed…
A farmer turned tech entrepreneur in southern India has revived his family’s fortunes by turning to a once-neglected crop that thrives in drought cond
Read Full Story at BBC Technology →Why This Matters
The revival of custard apple farming in Karnataka isn’t just a story of agricultural innovation—it’s a testament to how climate-resilient crops can transform rural economies. By shifting to drought-resistant varieties, farmers like Ashoka Shivareddy are turning a once-marginal fruit into a sustainable economic lifeline, proving that even underutilized produce can thrive with the right science and strategy.
Background Context
Custard apples, or *sitaphal*, have long been grown in India but were often overlooked due to short shelf life and sensitivity to water scarcity. Government and private research efforts, like the Arka Sahan hybrid, have only recently unlocked their commercial potential, aligning with India’s push for alternative cash crops amid erratic monsoons and groundwater depletion.
What Happens Next
If Arka Sahan gains traction, Karnataka’s farmers could set a precedent for other states battling climate stress, potentially triggering state subsidies or export demand for the fruit. Yet challenges remain—scaling up production while maintaining quality and ensuring market access will determine whether this becomes a lasting success or another fleeting experiment.
Bigger Picture
This shift mirrors a global pivot toward "neglected crops" that offer dual benefits: resilience and nutrition. As traditional staples like wheat and rice face climate threats, fruits like custard apples could fill a critical gap, especially in regions where smallholder farmers need both drought tolerance and high-value markets.
