In the regions of Choguri, Sohola, and Moriya Hola, India, within Agriculture Minister Atul Bora's constituency, pumpkin exports have reached over USD 2.4 million this year, surpassing last year's USD 720,000 and the initial target of USD 1.44 million. These pumpkins are being exported not only to West Bengal and Odisha but also to Nepal.
More than 100 trucks, each carrying 25–30 tons of pumpkins, have already departed the region, with an additional 200 trucks anticipated. Last year, pumpkin prices ranged from USD 0.0396 to USD 0.054 per kilogram, prompting over a thousand farmers to shift from mustard to large-scale pumpkin cultivation.
Despite expectations of USD 1.44 million in exports, local farmers report the figure has exceeded USD 2.4 million due to increased production from expanded cultivation. However, market control remains elusive for farmers who, despite managing their fields under the motto 'Our Fields, Our Market,' face challenges from traders offering low prices between USD 0.0396 and USD 0.054 per kg and rejecting smaller pumpkins, resulting in field wastage.
Local farmers suggest that a Minimum Support Price (MSP) could ensure fair pricing. They advocate for processing facilities in Assam, similar to those in other states, particularly in Bokakhat. Pumpkins are not only consumed as vegetables; their skin, flesh, and seeds are processed in specialized industries. Pumpkin seeds have a niche market due to their medicinal properties, aiding blood pressure and diabetes management. Post-processing, these seeds are scientifically packaged and sold outside Assam.
Source: The Sentinel