Maharashtra is called the stronghold of Jamun.
Jamun is a fruit which has more than 100 names. In Asian countries including India, it is called by names like Jambul, Jambolan, Naval, Naval Pazam, Nerale, Rajman, Jamli and Jamblang. India is the country which is at the forefront in the production and export of blackberries. Indian blackberries are in demand in many countries of the world. These include the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, United States of America, United Kingdom, Canada, Singapore and Australia.
There are many varieties of jamun in India, but Bahadoli jamun has got the GI tag. This is a special variety growing in Bahadoli village of Palghar district of Maharashtra. Which is known for its sweet taste and excellent quality. Maharashtra is the state which produces maximum number of blackberries in the country. Not only Palghar, Badlapur Jamun of Thane is also a special variety here.
States that provide blackberries to the country
Even though Maharashtra is called the stronghold of Jamun, Uttar Pradesh is at second place, where along with production, different varieties of it are found. Apart from Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Assam are also known for the production of blackberries.
Apart from Maharashtra, blackberries are also grown in UP and Tamil Nadu. Photo: Pexels
The yield remains constant also because the average age of the Jamun tree is considered to be 100 years. Their length can be up to 30 meters. These are known for giving dense shade and producing fruits.
How did Maharashtra become a stronghold?
Be it Palghar or Thane, they fall in the Konkan region of Maharashtra. Jamun is cultivated the most in the Konkan region. Bahadoli Jamun of Dahanu area is famous all over the country, which is known for its taste and quality.Temperate and tropical climate is considered best for blackberries. The hot and humid weather of Konkan is perfect for this. Heat and rain do not have much effect on the trees, due to which the plants remain strong here.
Bahadoli Jamun is famous all over the country.
Jamun comes in the market every year during the monsoon season. Heavy rains in Konkan prove to be favorable for ripening of fruits whereas excessive rains at the time of flowering are harmful, a balance is maintained here. Not only this, the well drained and fertile loamy soil here is considered ideal for its cultivation.
Berries are also called superfood.
Apart from Maharashtra, commercial cultivation of Jamun is also done in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, but due to the special climate-soil combination of Konkan and the premium Bahadoli variety there, Maharashtra has got a different identity.
Why popular all over the world?
Berries are also called superfood. It is said to be a particularly good fruit for diabetic patients. According to the report of Healthline, many types of antioxidants are found in it. The presence of Vitamin A, B, B1, B6 and E makes it special.
Drinks made from blackberries are also in trend.
Jamun contains 3 times more Vitamin C than orange. This is the reason why it keeps the skin healthy and helps in healing wounds faster. The antioxidants and Vitamin C present in it increase immunity and the body becomes stronger in fighting diseases. Not only this, it also proves effective in joint and muscle pain.
Food experts say, now there is a trend to eat jamun not only as a fresh fruit, but in many ways. It is also eaten in the form of dried fruit, frozen fruit, juice, smoothie and jam.
Also read: Neither Kerala, nor Tamil Nadu, which state provides the most coconuts to the country? Demand till UAE
