Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Bananas, a globally significant fruit crop, are a staple food source for millions, particularly in the tropics and subtropics. India ranks second in banana production worldwide, contributing significantly to the nation's agricultural economy. The crop’s resilience and relatively short growing season make it attractive to farmers. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates global banana production to be around 115 million tonnes annually. Addressing challenges in banana cultivation, from disease management to post-harvest losses, is crucial for ensuring food security and farmer livelihoods. This response will discuss varieties, nutrient management, plant protection, and post-harvest handling of banana crop.
Varieties of Banana
Bananas are broadly classified into dessert and cooking types. Numerous varieties exist, each with distinct characteristics. India cultivates over 100 varieties, broadly categorized as Robusta, Cavendish, and Nendran.
| Variety | Characteristics | Use | Region of Cultivation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cavendish | Most widely grown; medium size; sweet taste; susceptible to Panama disease (TR4) | Dessert | Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu |
| Robusta (Grand Naine) | Dwarf variety; high yield; good taste; relatively disease-resistant | Dessert | Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu |
| Nendran | Elongated fruit; unique flavor; starchy | Cooking (chips, vada, eladichuvadi) | Kerala, Karnataka |
| Poovan | Widely cultivated; good taste; good for export | Dessert | Tamil Nadu, Kerala |
Nutrient Management
Bananas are heavy feeders and require adequate nutrients for optimal growth and fruit quality. Deficiency of nutrients like potassium, nitrogen, and magnesium can significantly impact yield and fruit quality.
- Nitrogen (N): Promotes vegetative growth and leaf development. Application through split doses is recommended.
- Phosphorus (P): Essential for root development and flowering. Applied as a basal dose.
- Potassium (K): Critical for fruit development, sugar accumulation, and disease resistance. Banana plants require high potassium levels.
- Micronutrients: Zinc, boron, and iron deficiencies are common and can be addressed through foliar sprays or soil application.
- Organic Manures: Incorporating compost or farmyard manure improves soil fertility and water-holding capacity.
The ICAR-National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB) recommends specific fertilizer schedules based on soil type and variety. (Knowledge cutoff: latest recommendations available at NRCB website)
Plant Protection
Banana cultivation faces several biotic and abiotic stresses. Common pests and diseases include:
- Panama Wilt (Fusarium Wilt): A soilborne fungal disease causing wilting and death of plants. Resistant varieties and bio-control agents are crucial.
- Sigatoka Leaf Spot: A fungal disease causing yellow spots on leaves, reducing photosynthetic area. Fungicides are used for control.
- Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV): A viral disease transmitted by aphids; causes stunted growth and deformed bunches. Strict quarantine measures and virus-free planting material are essential.
- Nematodes: Root-knot nematodes cause galls on roots, hindering nutrient uptake.
- Fruit Flies: Attack ripening fruits causing damage.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, including biological control, resistant varieties, and judicious use of pesticides, are recommended. The National Plant Protection Agency (NPPA) provides guidance on pest and disease management.
Post-Harvest Handling
Post-harvest losses in banana are significant, often exceeding 20-30% due to mechanical injuries, fungal rots, and ripening problems. Proper handling is crucial to minimize these losses.
- Harvesting: Bananas are harvested at the mature green stage.
- Dehanding and Bunches Protection: Careful dehanding and bunch protection from insects are important.
- Waxing: Application of wax coating helps reduce water loss and prevent fungal infections.
- Controlled Atmosphere Storage: Controlled temperature and humidity during storage can extend shelf life. However, this is expensive and not widely adopted by small farmers.
- Ripening Rooms: Controlled ripening rooms provide uniform ripening and improve fruit quality.
- Transportation: Gentle handling during transportation minimizes bruising and damage.
The Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing & Preservation Sector (PMFMP) scheme aims to provide infrastructure and technology for food processing, including banana ripening and storage facilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, banana cultivation presents both opportunities and challenges. The diversity of varieties, coupled with efficient nutrient management, integrated plant protection, and improved post-harvest handling practices, is vital for enhancing productivity and reducing losses. Focusing on disease-resistant varieties, promoting sustainable farming practices, and investing in post-harvest infrastructure are crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the banana industry in India. Further research into bio-control agents and cost-effective storage solutions will also be essential.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.