Vol. 12, Special Issue 9 (2023)

Author(s):
Reena Hota, AK Gauraha and VK Chaudhary

Abstract:
Brinjal (Solanum melongena) is an important vegetable crop grown in Bilaspur district, Chhattisgarh. The area and production of Brinjal have been increasing steadily in the district over the past decade. In 2020, the area under Brinjal cultivation was 15,000 hectares, and the production was 100,000 tonnes. This represents an increase of 20% in area and 30% in production over the 2011 levels. The trend of Brinjal cultivation in Bilaspur district is largely driven by the increasing demand for the crop in the domestic and export markets. Brinjal is a popular vegetable in India, and its demand is growing due to the increasing population and the changing dietary habits of people. The crop is also exported to countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. The growth of Brinjal cultivation in Bilaspur district has been supported by a number of factors, including the availability of irrigation water, the use of improved varieties, and the adoption of modern agricultural practices. The district has a well-developed irrigation system, which provides water for irrigation during the dry season. The use of improved varieties has helped to increase the yield of Brinjal. Farmers in the district have also adopted modern agricultural practices such as drip irrigation and the use of fertilizers and pesticides.