Mysuru: Karnataka State Agricultural Produce Processing and Export Corporation (KAPPEC) managing director CN Shivaprakash stated that farmers and farmer groups must focus on value addition and packaging of bananas in a way that extends their shelf life for at least a week to earn higher profits.KAPPEC provides the required technology and financial assistance for packaging, grading, and marketing. “Farmers should make good use of these opportunities,” he said.Speaking after inaugurating the two-day Banana Fair here on Saturday, he stated that there is great demand for bananas in other states. Farmers should organise themselves to sell directly in such markets. KAPPEC is ready to provide financial assistance up to Rs 15 lakh to start any agri-based enterprise.Banana Mela is being jointly organised by Sahaja Samrudha, Keystone Foundation, and Using Diversity in collaboration with Abhay Natural Foods and Kisan Bandi.Releasing a leaflet on banana diversity, neurologist Dr Sushrutha Gowda said, “Bananas have several health-promoting properties. Rich in fibre, regular consumption of bananas improves digestion and relieves constipation. Being high in potassium, bananas help control blood pressure and prevent heart-related diseases. Bananas play a vital role in physical growth. There is a need for research and promotion of the medicinal value of diverse banana varieties.“Chief guest Gnanesh BN from ICAR–JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, banana conservator Ravishankar BP from Hudur, Kodagu; Sumathi, CEO of Organic Kisan Bandi, and G Krishna Prasad, director of Sahaja Samrudha, were present.100 banana varieties on display Over 100 banana varieties are on display at the two-day fair, including Madarangi, Chandra Bale, Sahasra Bale, Matti Bale, Blue Java, Pooja Bale, Kamala Red Banana, Changadali, Kari Bale, Rasabale, Chiralu Bale, and Chingam.Prasad Ram Hegde from Sirsi has exhibited more than 30 varieties, including the Namaste Banana and the impressive 8-foot-long Sahasra Banana.On Sunday, a banana cooking competition will be held under the auspices of JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur. Participants can bring traditional or innovative dishes made from banana flowers, stems, raw fruit, ripe fruit, or root. Special recognition will be given to health-promoting dishes, and the best entries will receive cash prizes.At 10.30am, there is a drawing competition for kids aged between 5 to 12 years. Children will draw on themes related to banana cultivation, culture, and cuisine at the venue. Participants must bring their own colours and materials; drawing sheets will be provided.
