DIGITAL EMPOWERMENT (VAC)
SUBMITTED BY: ADITYA MISHRA
ROLL NUMBER: 24/372
COURSE: BA(Program:His+Eng) 2nd SEMESTER
P.G.D.A.V COLLEGE (EVE)
UNIVERSITY
OF
DELHI
Title : Mango
Mango as a Local Product
(Production, Advantages, Disadvantages, Health Benefits, Environmental Issues, and More)
Introduction to Mango
Mango (Mangifera indica) is one of the most popular and widely consumed fruits in tropical and subtropical regions. It is often called the "King of Fruits" due to its rich flavor, juicy pulp, and high nutritional value. Mango is a significant local product in many countries, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, the Philippines, Mexico, and several African and Caribbean countries.
In regions where mangoes are grown locally, they not only contribute to the economy but also play a role in culture, cuisine, and even traditional medicine. Mangoes are available in hundreds of varieties, each with unique taste, texture, size, and color.
How Mangoes Are Made (Cultivation Process)
1. Plantation
Mango trees thrive in tropical and subtropical climates with well-drained soil. They require hot and dry conditions during flowering and fruiting seasons. The process starts with planting saplings, usually at the beginning of the monsoon season.
2. Growth and Flowering
Mango trees take 3-5 years to bear fruit. In early spring, the trees bloom with beautiful small white flowers. These flowers attract bees and other pollinators essential for fruit setting.
3. Fruit Development
Once the flowers are pollinated, they develop into small mangoes. The fruits mature over the next 3-6 months depending on the variety and climatic conditions.
4. Harvesting
Mangoes are harvested manually when they reach the proper maturity. Timing is crucial as premature harvesting can lead to poor flavor, while delayed harvesting may cause over-ripening and spoilage.
5. Post-Harvest Handling
After harvesting, mangoes are sorted, washed, and sometimes treated naturally or chemically to enhance shelf life. They are then packed and transported to local markets or exported.
Advantages of Mango Production
1. Economic Contribution
Mango production provides employment to millions of farmers, laborers, and traders. It is a major export item for many developing countries, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings.
2. Cultural Importance
In many regions, mangoes are integral to festivals, traditions, and local cuisines. Mango-based dishes like pickles, chutneys, desserts, and beverages are widely loved.
3. Supports Agro-Industries
Mangoes are used in various agro-industries such as juice production, dried mango, jams, syrups, and confectionery, adding value to the raw fruit.
4. Source of Income for Small Farmers
In rural areas, small-scale farmers rely heavily on mango cultivation for their livelihoods. Local markets, roadside vendors, and small-scale processors benefit from the mango season.
Disadvantages of Mango Production
1. Seasonal Dependency
Mango is a seasonal fruit, and farmers often face challenges due to unpredictable weather, pests, and diseases during the fruiting season.
2. High Water Demand
Although mango trees are somewhat drought-resistant, commercial production often requires supplemental irrigation, leading to water consumption concerns.
3. Post-Harvest Losses
Due to inadequate storage and transportation infrastructure, a significant percentage of mangoes get spoiled before reaching consumers, causing economic losses.
Comments
Post a Comment