With Summer Approaching, Yellow Watermelon Sales Surge In Tamil Nadu's Theni

In the Theni district of Tamil Nadu, including areas like Gampam Chinnamanur and Kudalur, there has been a rise in the demand for watermelons, particularly the yellow variety. Watermelon vendors have set up stalls along the roadsides to cater to the increasing demand. With the onset of March, the heat has intensified prompting people to prefer yellow watermelons imported from Karnataka over other fruits like regular watermelons.

The sale of Mitula and Vilasa varieties of watermelons is booming. These types of watermelons naturally have a yellow hue. Shop owners selling watermelons mention that people are drawn to watermelons because of their high water content and sweet flavour.

While Tindivanam watermelons are priced at Rs 20 per kilogram, the new yellow variety is being sold for only Rs 25 per kilogram. With the onset of the summer season, watermelon stalls around Chinnamanur are bustling with activity, according to watermelon traders.

On the other side, farmers in various parts of Tripura, particularly in Golaghati village within the Bishalgarh sub-division of Sepahijala District, are enjoying significant profits from cultivating yellow watermelon during the off-season.

The appearance of a yellow watermelon closely resembles that of a typical watermelon, featuring a green striped rind. However, upon cutting it open, one will find vibrant golden-yellow flesh. Similar to its red counterpart, yellow watermelon is sweet, juicy and exceptionally delicious. Some individuals even find it slightly sweeter than red watermelon, with hints of a honey-like flavour.

While yellow watermelon may not be as common in the market compared to its red counterpart, farmers in states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and now Tripura are cultivating it. Tripura, known for its cultivation of red watermelon, is gradually seeing farmers venture into cultivating yellow watermelon in the hopes of achieving greater profits.

This innovative farming approach not only enhances economic self-sufficiency for local farmers but also contributes to meeting the nutritional needs of the community.