Hyderabad grape area shrinks from 1500 to 400 acres

MAHESH AVADHUTHA I hyderabad

Not so long ago, Hyderabad was called ‘Grape City’ and popular varieties such as Anab-e-Shahi were spoken about in faraway lands. Grape cultivation around Hyderabad has shrunk drastically over the years, dropping from nearly 15,000 acres to just about 400 acres today, according to Dr. D. Rajireddy, Vice Chancellor of Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University.

Speaking at the Grape Festival held at the Grape Research Center in Rajendranagar on Saturday, he said that despite the steep decline, Hyderabad still has the potential to regain its past reputation as a “Grape City” if farmers expand vineyards in surrounding districts.

Dr. Rajireddy explained that grape cultivation around Hyderabad once flourished across nearly 15,000 acres. However, the rapid expansion of real estate and the rising cost of cultivation, particularly labour expenses, forced many farmers to uproot their vineyards and shift to other crops.Even so, he said there remains strong demand for grapes in the local market, which continues to offer good returns to farmers.

According to him, at least another 100 acres can be added immediately if farmers are encouraged to take up grape cultivation again. With scientific farming practices and modern cultivation methods, grapes can once again emerge as a profitable commercial crop in the Hyderabad region, he added.

Technology can boost yields

The Vice Chancellor stressed that farmers should adopt low cost technologies and precision farming methods to reduce cultivation costs and improve productivity. He advised farmers to use water and fertilizers only as required and avoid excessive pesticide use. Proper nutrient management and timely irrigation, he said, can significantly improve both yield and fruit quality.

Research is also being planned on pest management techniques using subsoil practices to reduce insect attacks. According to him, such scientific interventions will help farmers lower production costs and ensure better crop protection. Experimental grape cultivation will soon begin at the Fruit Research Station in Sangareddy and the Horticultural Research Station in Mallepally under the university to study their suitability for wider farming. Based on the results, recommendations will be made to farmers for expanding cultivation.

A Crop with Multiple Opportunities

According to experts, grape farming can generate significant employment and income if promoted properly.

Head of the Grape Research Station Dr. Anitha Kumari said several high quality grape varieties are being showcased to farmers at the research station, along with practical training in modern cultivation techniques. Farmers visiting the festival are being educated on pruning methods, canopy management, pest control and post harvest handling.

Experts also noted that many young farmers are showing interest in grape cultivation. Grapes are considered ideal for agri-tourism and can support the growth of the wine industry in the state.With the integration of technology, research support and government incentives, experts believe grape cultivation can once again become a profitable and sustainable crop for farmers in Telangana. If promoted strategically, the crop can strengthen the horticulture sector and create new livelihood opportunities for rural youth.

Several scientists, farmers, students and agricultural experts including Padma Shri awardee Chinthala Venkata Reddy participated in the event along with grape experts Dr. Rangareddy and Dr. Srinivasa Rao. University Registrar Dr. A. Bhagwan, Research Director Dr. D. Lakshminarayana and scientists Dr. Prashanth, Dr. Venkatalakshmi and Dr. Srinivas were also present. The festival served as a platform for farmers and scientists to exchange knowledge and explore new opportunities in grape cultivation.