Developed by Punjab Agricultural University, PAU Kinnow-1 contains an average of just 3.4 seeds per fruit.

Punjab’s 'Orange Gold' Goes Seedless: A Strategic Roadmap for Global Premium Markets

Punjab is set to strengthen its position as India’s premier kinnow producer by transitioning toward low-seeded and near-seedless varieties. This strategic shift, led by the release of PAU Kinnow-1, aims to significantly enhance the state's fruit processing capabilities and global export potential.

Developed by Punjab Agricultural University, PAU Kinnow-1 contains an average of just 3.4 seeds per fruit, addressing the limitations of traditional varieties that have higher seed counts. Kinnow cultivation is the mainstay of Punjab’s horticulture, accounting for nearly 47 per cent of the state’s total fruit area and producing 1.32 million tonnes annually. From just 500 hectares in 1970, cultivation has expanded to approximately 49,000 hectares in 2023-24.

According to Dr HS Rattanpal, Head of Fruit Science at PAU, the new strain improves juice yield and marketability. To support this growth, the state has already established over 40 waxing plants, which extend shelf life for international trade. Currently, Punjab exports kinnow to Russia, the Middle East, Nepal, and Bangladesh, with new markets emerging in Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Experts believe that by leveraging post-harvest technologies and expanding processing capacity, Punjab can transform kinnow cultivation into a robust agro-industry. This transition is expected to stabilise farmer incomes and solidify the state's role as a global hub for premium mandarins.

Source: The Tribune