The ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticulture Research, Bengaluru identified two elite jackfruit varieties “Siddu” conserved by Mr. S. S. Paramesh, Tumakuru, and “Shakara” conserved by Mr. Shankariah, Tumakuru, with attractive coppery red coloured flakes. Both these farmers are recognized as “Custodians of Genetic Diversity of jackfruit”. The ICAR-IIHR created a model for commercialization of these varieties in 2018, after recognising and honouring the farmers for conserving this variety as “Custodians of Genetic Diversity”. During the inaugural session of the Special Joint Session of Vice Chancellors of Agricultural Universities and Directors of ICAR research institutes held on 05.12.2020, Hon. Shri Parshottam Rupala, Minister of State, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India in presence of Hon Shri Kailash Choudhary, Minister of State, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India and Dr Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, DARE and DG, ICAR.handed over the cheques of Rs 5.00 lakhs each to the above farmers out of the revenue generated from the sales of jackfruit saplings through the institute. As per MOU, the revenue generated from the sale jackfruit saplings is shared between the Licensor (jackfruit farmer) in such a way that 75% of the earning would go to the farmer and 25% would go to the Institute. Over the period of two years both these farmers benefited about Rs. 15 lakhs (Siddu farmer) and Rs. 8.00 lakhs (Shakara farmer) by selling the jackfruit saplings through ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru. This innovative model of linking biodiversity with livelihood security created and developed by Dr. M.R. Dinesh, Director, ICAR-IIHR is helping the farmers for doubling the income.
