A state-level citrus seminar conducted in Nalgonda has renewed focus on reviving sweet lime cultivation, a crop once synonymous with the district’s agricultural identity. During the event, Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy emphasized the need for structured interventions to restore Mosambi cultivation and support horticulture-based farming.
Historically, Nalgonda was known for extensive sweet lime orchards spread across nearly four lakh acres. However, changing market conditions, disease concerns, and shifts in cultivation preferences have reduced the cultivated area to approximately 40,000 acres. Agricultural experts believe this decline has affected both farm incomes and the district’s horticultural prominence.
The government is considering measures including subsidies, technical support, improved planting material, and infrastructure development to encourage farmers to return to sweet lime cultivation. Officials stated that horticultural crops often provide higher value returns while contributing to better soil conservation and resource efficiency.
Experts at the seminar discussed modern orchard management techniques, disease control measures, post-harvest handling, and marketing opportunities. They highlighted the growing demand for citrus fruits in domestic and export markets, creating potential opportunities for farmers willing to invest in horticulture.
Many farmers attending the seminar expressed interest in exploring sweet lime cultivation if adequate support mechanisms are provided. Agricultural authorities believe that a coordinated revival strategy could significantly increase cultivation area over the coming years.
The initiative aims to strengthen horticulture in Nalgonda while creating sustainable income opportunities for farming communities across the district.