In a remarkable agricultural transformation, Gujarat's Dang district has emerged as the state's premier strawberry-producing region. This surge in cultivation is largely credited to the government's natural farming initiative, which has empowered local farmers to embrace sustainable practices and significantly boost their incomes. With farmers now earning between ₹7 lakh and ₹8 lakh annually per hectare, the economic impact has been profound.
Official data reveals that the area dedicated to strawberry farming has expanded from just 20 hectares in 2022-23 to approximately 33 hectares in 2025-26. Additionally, production has skyrocketed, increasing from 140 metric tonnes in 2022-23 to a projected 233 metric tonnes in 2025-26. This growth can be attributed to a combination of favorable climatic conditions and rising market demand for strawberries.
- Natural farming initiative — Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel declared Dang as India's first natural farming district.
- Variety of crops — Farmers are cultivating nine different strawberry varieties, with Winter Dawn being the most popular.
- Economic impact — Farmers are shifting from traditional crops to strawberries for better profitability.
The district's unique climatic conditions, characterized by cool temperatures and sandy-loam soil rich in organic matter, create an ideal environment for strawberry growth. Experts note that strawberries thrive in well-drained soil with specific pH levels and require adequate sunlight for optimal flowering and fruit development. Farmers are currently cultivating a range of strawberry varieties, including Winter Dawn, Early Winter, and Camarosa, with Winter Dawn emerging as the top choice due to its high yield potential.
As strawberry farming gains traction, the local horticulture department has been proactive in supporting farmers through training camps and educational tours focused on modern cultivation techniques. Subsidies ranging from 55% to 75% are being provided for essential resources like strawberry saplings and farming equipment. The shift towards strawberry farming has also created seasonal employment opportunities, attracting many locals who previously depended on labor work in industrial sectors.
