Sugarcane growers in the Sirsi-Yellapur belt are eager to know if the Congress government will approve a scheme that aims to conserve and promote ‘joni bella’ — a special variety of jaggery.
It has been three years since the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, sent a Rs. 1 crore proposal in this regard, which, if implemented, promises to boost the agrarian economy in this part of the State. However, the proposal was not considered by the Bharatiya Janata Party government.
“Production of joni bella is limited to Sirsi, Siddapur, Yellapur, and some parts of Sagar taluk. It is quite popular; 25 kg of this jaggery can sell for as much as Rs. 1,000. However, the production is limited; farmers will produce joni bella for domestic use and sell the surplus,” said Manjunath Hegde, a farmer.
Joni bella production could prove to be an alternative source of income for sugarcane growers if there is a system in place, according to Mr. Hegde. At this juncture, it could not be considered a profitable venture. The university’s scheme could change that, he added.
Mr. Hegde was confident that the product could fare well in the market if the government approved the scheme. “It will also help check the migration of the youth. It is difficult to address the agrarian crisis unless innovative initiatives in the agricultural sector are encouraged,” he said.
R.R. Hanchinal, Vice-Chancellor, UAS-Dharwad, said the varsity had established a jaggery park in Belgaum district to preserve and promote varieties of jaggery. “Joni bella is also on our priority. It would help if the government approves the project at the earliest,” he added.
