The Indian horticulture research centre based in Udhagamandalam has introduced a new mandarin variety to revive the local citrus industry, the Times of India reports.

The new variety of mandarin has been budded on rough lemon as root stock, which can produce large trees with good fruit. This variety would begin bearing fruit in its fourth year and would produce 700-800 fruits by its seventh year.

'The soil in Kookalthorai area is unique which would facilitate the bearing of fruits with loose jacket and special flavour. Located about 2,500 metres above sea level the conditions are ideal for orange cultivation,' N Selvaraj, head of the horticulture research station, told the Times of India.

The scheme is sponsored by the hill area development project, which is currently overseeing the distribution of 7,250 of the new variety of budded orange plans to 120 farmers for conducting field demonstrations.

Udhagamandalam, locally known as Ooty, in the southernmost state Tamil Nadu, used to be renowned for its citrus production. However, citrus decline disease deterred farmers from cultivating crops there in the 1990s.

'The Kookalthorai oranges, known for its unique flavour and taste, was cultivated in the villages located in and around Kookalthorai valley till about 20 years ago. After the price of tea went up in the late 90s farmers took to planting tea for better profit,' Selvaraj said.

'Currently, more than 100 farmers have benefitted and the scheme will be expanded in the coming years. We will try to bring back the original area of orange cultivation in the Nilgiris.'

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