A Farmer's Mango Dream
In the heart of Rajasthan, a remarkable agricultural feat has taken root. Shri Kishan Suman, a seasoned farmer from Girdharpura village near Kota, has achieved
what many believed to be impossible: cultivating a mango that fruits not once, but three times annually. This exceptional development centers around his 'Sadabahar Mango,' a variety that has garnered significant national attention for its unique characteristic of yielding fruit in January-February, June-July, and September-October. Suman's journey into mango cultivation began after a shift from traditional rice and wheat farming, leading him to explore floriculture and eventually, a passion for mangoes. He experimented with various mango stones and grafting techniques, meticulously nurturing a special tree that displayed an unusual flowering pattern, ultimately leading to the birth of Sadabahar. This innovation promises to revolutionize the way mango lovers experience their favorite fruit, moving beyond the constraints of a single annual season. The dedication and foresight of farmers like Suman are instrumental in bringing such unique and valuable agricultural advancements to light.
The Sadabahar Variety
The 'Sadabahar Mango' is a testament to Shri Kishan Suman's innovative spirit and perseverance. Developed around the year 2000, this dwarf variety bears a striking resemblance to the beloved Alphonso in terms of taste, texture, and appearance. Its flesh is fiber-free, possessing a delightful saffron-orange hue and a size comparable to the premium Alphonso. What truly sets Sadabahar apart is its superior table quality, exceeding that of other multi-season varieties like Baramasi or Dofasla. Suman's creation is not only unique but also disease-resistant, making it a more resilient and reliable crop for farmers. The journey to widespread recognition was facilitated by the Honey Bee Network, which connected Suman with the National Innovation Foundation (NIF). Following NIF's guidance to rigorously test and register the variety, Sadabahar's potential was validated over years of observation and trials across the country, proving its exceptional value and distinctiveness in the world of mangoes.
National Recognition and Acclaim
Shri Kishan Suman's groundbreaking work with the 'Sadabahar Mango' has not gone unnoticed, culminating in significant national recognition. In March 2017, his dedication and agricultural innovation were honored with the Farm Innovation Award at Rashtrapati Bhavan during the National Innovation Foundation's 9th Biennial Grassroots event. This prestigious award underscores the national importance and impact of his achievement. Furthermore, the 'Sadabahar' variety has found a place in the esteemed Amrit Udyan at Rashtrapati Bhavan, symbolizing its acceptance and celebrated status. The mango is now officially registered under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act, providing legal recognition and protection for Suman's intellectual property. While mango trees typically take several years to bear fruit, the distinctive advantages and unparalleled taste of Sadabahar make the wait an anticipated and worthwhile endeavor for growers and consumers alike, solidifying its place as a remarkable agricultural innovation.
