Indian Farmers Embrace Avocado Cultivation Amid Rising Demand

Small farmers across India are turning to avocado cultivation as demand for the fruit surges. Gursimran Singh, a farmer from Malerkotla in Punjab, has shifted his focus from traditional crops to avocados, traveling to Coorg to acquire saplings. Singh invested nearly ₹ 7 lakh on 800 avocado saplings, anticipating a yield of over 40 kg per plant after four years. This shift reflects a broader trend as Indian consumers increasingly favor avocados, with imports doubling annually.

The avocado boom in India is largely fueled by a post-pandemic health trend. According to Vernika Awal, a food writer and consultant based in Delhi, avocados have transitioned from a niche product to a staple in upper-income households. They are now featured on menus from street vendors to high-end cafes, reinforcing their status as a nutritious superfood. “Avocados have gained a reputation as a heart-healthy food, packed with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins,” Awal explained.

Growing Demand and Historical Context

The demand for avocados in India has skyrocketed, with imports rising from a mere 234 tonnes in FY21 to nearly 12,000 tonnes in FY25. This year, imports are projected to exceed 20,000 tonnes. The shift in consumer preferences has also influenced culinary practices. Chefs are now incorporating avocados into various dishes, including the popular avocado dosa, which has gained traction at vegetarian restaurants like Omo in Gurugram.

Historically, avocados were introduced to India over a century ago. According to Muralidhara B.M., head of the Central Horticultural Experiment Station in Coorg, they were likely brought over by Christian missionaries from Sri Lanka. Initially, avocados were consumed locally, often referred to as butter fruit. However, their popularity was limited due to Indian tastes favoring sweeter fruits.

The rising interest in avocados has prompted research institutions like the Central Horticultural Experiment Station to develop new varieties, including Arka Coorg Ravi and Arka Coorg Supreme. These efforts are vital as growers seek to capitalize on the growing market.

Investing in Avocado Farming

As farmers like Singh pivot to avocado cultivation, the financial prospects appear promising. Singh estimates he could earn close to ₹ 400,000 per acre, net of expenses. Similarly, Akshath Muthanna, a third-generation coffee grower in Coorg, has allocated five acres of his land to avocados, projecting net returns of ₹ 6-8 lakh per acre.

Despite the lucrative returns, challenges remain. The Hass variety, which is the most popular globally due to its long shelf life, struggles in India’s extreme temperatures. Farmers are encouraged to consider heat-tolerant cultivars, such as Pinkerton and Ettinger, to ensure successful yields.

Prabhu Gowda, who returned from the US to pursue avocado farming, acquired 47 acres on the outskirts of Bengaluru. His aim is to produce high-quality fruit while also exploring oil extraction from lower-grade avocados. “A kilogram of Hass can yield 300 ml of oil, which retails for over ₹ 2,000 per litre,” he noted.

The avocado industry in India is still in its infancy, with significant investment needed before orchards become commercially viable. It typically takes four to five years for avocado trees to yield a profitable return, meaning farmers must be prepared for a long-term commitment.

In summary, the increasing consumer demand for avocados presents a significant opportunity for Indian farmers. With the right investments and cultivation techniques, avocados could become a staple in the Indian agricultural landscape, much like tomatoes and potatoes did in the past. The future of avocados in India looks promising, but careful nurturing of both the plants and the market will be essential for sustained success.