India's jackfruit revolution: How two elite varieties are transforming farming

Jackfruit has long been a staple in rural Indian diets, prized for its sweet, nutritious flakes and resilience. Yet, until recently, its cultivation lacked organisation and commercial focus. That changed in 2014 when the ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) stepped in to transform the fruit’s potential into a structured opportunity for farmers. ICAR-IIHR began by evaluating 128 jackfruit varieties from across the country. After careful assessment, two standout types—Siddu and Shankara—were selected for their superior qualities. The criteria included flake colour, texture, fruit size, and nutritional value.

Siddu jackfruit is known for its striking coppery-red flakes and compact size, averaging 2.44 kg per fruit. Each contains 25 to 30 bulbs, offering a rich, sweet taste with a total soluble solids (TSS) reading of 31 degrees Brix. Nutritionally, it packs 4.43 mg of carotenoids, 1.12 mg of lycopene, 6.48 mg of vitamin C, and 31.76 mg of phenolics per 100 grams.

Shankara, on the other hand, produces larger fruits, weighing between 2 to 5 kg. It yields around 60 flakes per fruit, which are sweet, crisp, and aromatic. This variety also boasts higher carotenoid (5.83 mg/100 g) and lycopene (2.26 mg/100 g) levels compared to common white or yellow-flaked jackfruits.

Both varieties thrive in tropical and subtropical climates, with each tree capable of producing up to 450 fruits annually. Their hardiness makes them ideal for diverse growing conditions. To support farmers, ICAR-IIHR developed a commercialisation model where 75% of sapling sales revenue goes directly to them, ensuring financial benefits and encouraging biodiversity conservation. The introduction of Siddu and Shankara jackfruit varieties has brought structure to an otherwise fragmented industry. Farmers now have access to high-yield, nutrient-rich crops, while the revenue-sharing model strengthens their economic independence. This initiative not only boosts local agriculture but also secures the future of jackfruit cultivation in India.