Nashik targets export of 20,000 tonne grapes

The number of grape-growers and exporters is on the rise in Nashik. About 6,032 new grape-growers have registered till date in this season (December-March) for exporting grapes. The office of the superintending agriculture officer has set an export target of 20,000 tonne this season to generate a revenue of Rs 200 crore.

The grape cultivation area in the district has increased by 5,000 acre to 80,000 acre. Wine grape varieties have been cultivated on around 1,200 acre.

Total investment in the district vineyards is estimated at Rs 1,400 crore.

"The proportion of grape exports from Nashik district has increased four fold from 3,775.37 tonne in 2001-02 to 13,359 tonne in 2004-05. The district is exporting grapes to nine countries including Russia, Holland, Belgium, UK and Germany. This year, we have set an export target of 20,000 tonne and Rs 200 crore turn over is expected through these exports," said Dhananjay Wardekar, agriculture officer said,

"To promote export quality grapes production, Agricultural and processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has made registration of grape-growers compulsory for export. This year, 14,632 grape-growers have registered with the the District Superintending Agriculture Officer. With an aim to inspect vineyards, 122 inspection officers were appointed for three inspections, each after two to three months. Within 20 days after the third inspection of vineyards, samples are sent to the certified Pesticide Testing Labs, which give residue analysis report. APEDA gives Rs 3,500 subsidy each for testing of grape samples in labs," he said.

Nashik has now emerged as the wine capital of the country and 50 per cent or 18 wineries are in the district. As a result, demand for wine grape varieties is increasing.

At present, the demand of district wineries is 3,000 tonne wine quality grapes, but only 2,000 tonne wine grapes will be available from Nashik district this season.