Celebrating Pakistan's Rich Mango Heritage | Economic Potential

A Historical and Cultural Legacy

The significance of the mango in South Asian culture is profound, with its roots deeply embedded in the region's history. The revered Indo-Persian poet Amir Khusrow immortalized the mango as the "Naghza Tarin Mewa Hindustan" – "the fairest fruit of Hindustan," a phrase that underscores the mango's esteemed status. Historically, the fruit graced the courts of Delhi Sultan Alauddin Khilji and later became a favorite in the opulent courts of the Mughal Empire. The Mughals, known for their patronage of art, culture, and horticulture, played a pivotal role in the development of mango varieties. Their efforts led to the grafting of thousands of mango varieties, including the famous Tota Pari, which was the first variety exported to Iran and Central Asia.

This historical significance has continued into modern times, where mangoes have become a tool of diplomacy. For instance, in a recent act of "mango diplomacy," Pakistani ambassadors presented mangoes to U.S. lawmakers, eliciting the sweet response, "Never thought diplomacy could be so sweet." This gesture highlights how mangoes continue to foster bilateral relations, serving as a delicious symbol of goodwill and cultural exchange.

Pakistan's Mango Industry: A Competitive Edge

Pakistan's mango industry is vast, with nearly 400 varieties of mangoes cultivated across the country. While this number is lower than India's 1,200 varieties, Pakistan's mangoes are renowned for their unparalleled sweetness and taste. This unique flavor profile gives Pakistan a competitive edge in the global market, allowing it to compete strongly against other mango-producing nations.

This year, Pakistan's mango exports have shown a promising increase, with the potential to be a "rescuer of the falling agrarian economy." The government has recognized the importance of boosting mango exports, which not only enhances foreign exchange earnings but also contributes to food sustainability in the country. Although the export of mangoes has evolved over the years, with improvements in both quantity and quality, there remains significant potential for growth.

Last year, due to mobility restrictions, mango exports declined to 39,000 tonnes. However, this year has seen a rebound, with exports crossing 60,000 tonnes even with a few months of the mango season remaining. The target for this year's mango exports is set at 150,000 tonnes, a goal that mango growers are confident can be achieved. To reach this target, farmers are encouraged to maximize their yield by implementing modern agricultural practices, including planting intensity, adopting digital marketing strategies, and adhering to international standards.

Enhancing Mango Production: Best Practices

To realize the full potential of Pakistan's mango industry, farmers must focus on several critical areas of orchard management. Irrigation management is one of the most crucial aspects, as water is essential for plant growth and nutrient transportation from the soil to the plants. The annual water demand for a mango crop is between 500 to 700 mm, yet most farmers still rely on flood irrigation systems. This method is highly inefficient, especially in a country grappling with water scarcity. Advanced and efficient irrigation systems, such as drip or subsurface irrigation, have proven to save 60-80% of water, making them an ideal choice for mango orchards.

Another key aspect of mango cultivation is canopy management. Traditionally, farmers maintained canopies of 70 to 75 feet for a single plant. However, with the advent of advanced techniques, canopy sizes have been significantly reduced to 20 to 25 feet, allowing for higher density planting. This reduction in canopy size has enabled mango growers to increase their production, with some now expecting yields of up to 8,000 maunds per acre.

The importance of a quality mango nursery cannot be overstated. In the past, farmers would often plant nursery plants directly into their orchards, leading to vertical disease transmission. Today, there is a growing awareness of the need to source nursery plants from reputable nurseries or to establish separate nurseries to ensure the health and productivity of the orchards.

Harvesting practices also play a critical role in the quality of mango production. Picking should be done when the fruit is fully developed and mature, as different varieties ripen at different times depending on the region. In Sindh, mango varieties start ripening from May to June, while in Punjab, the ripening period extends from June to mid-August. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), the harvest occurs later, extending the availability of mangoes. By employing essential and suitable techniques, Pakistani farmers can consistently yield a substantial quantity of export-grade mangoes.

The Role of Youth and Technology in Mango Exports

Pakistan's young population is a tremendous asset, especially in the context of the mango industry. This demographic, familiar with digital technology and the Internet of Things (IoT), can play a pivotal role in revolutionizing the marketing and export of mangoes. Digital literacy and marketing can be harnessed to capture potential customers worldwide, expanding the reach of Pakistan's mangoes in the global market.

Initiatives such as mango festivals could serve as platforms to connect industrialists, mango growers, and the youth. These events would not only celebrate the cultural significance of mangoes but also highlight their economic potential. Additionally, establishing a mango museum in mango-growing regions could be invaluable. Such an institution would educate the public about the history, varieties, and cultivation practices of mangoes, while also serving as a tourist attraction. This endeavor would require collaboration between industries and academia, fostering innovation and preserving the legacy of Pakistan's mangoes.

Conclusion: Mangoes as a Symbol of National Pride and Economic Revival

As Pakistan celebrates its 78th independence day, the mango stands as a symbol of the nation's rich cultural heritage and its potential for economic revival. By focusing on sustainable agricultural practices, enhancing export strategies, and leveraging the power of youth and technology, Pakistan can position its mangoes as a global leader in quality and taste.

The government’s efforts to boost mango exports are crucial, not only for uplifting the agrarian economy but also for achieving broader food sustainability goals. As we look to the future, it is essential to remember that the success of Pakistan's mango industry will depend on the collective efforts of farmers, the government, and the younger generation. Together, they can ensure that Pakistan’s "King of Fruits" continues to reign supreme, both at home and abroad.

Please note that the views expressed in this article are of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of any organization.

Manan Aslam is a PhD Scholar at School of Management, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China and Lecturer at the Department of Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship Development, MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan 

Abdul Rehman serves Quaid-i-Azam School of Management Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan

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