First guava processing plant in Rajasthan to improve farmers’ livelihood with value addition

A guava processing plant to be set up at Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan at a cost of ₹150 crore, is expected to improve farmers’ livelihood through value additional and agricultural innovations. The unit will also ensure an increase in the demand for guava and its products in both domestic and international markets.

The announcement for establishment of the processing plant was made at the first-ever Guava Festival, held at Sawai Madhopur on Sunday (January 18, 2026). Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and State Agriculture Minister Kirodi Lal Meena participated in the festival, which coincided with the Agricultural Technology Fair 2026.

Of the 14,000 hectares of guava orchards in Rajasthan, 11,000 hectares are located in Sawai Madhopur district alone. Mr. Meena said the guava farmers in the State were earning ₹600 crore to ₹700 crore annually from the fruit, while the government aimed at increasing their income to about ₹1,600 crore per annum.

Need of the hour

“The processing unit for guava, which is grown here extensively, is the need of the hour. Farmers, who have to travel to distant places like Delhi and Vadodara to sell their produce, will find remunerative prices here itself,” Mr. Meena said. The processing plant would benefit the farmers in nearby districts in eastern Rajasthan as well, he added.

Mr. Birla said the promotion of agricultural and horticultural products would help enhance the farmers’ income and strengthen the rural economy. “Guava is an affordable fruit. It is highly nutritious and has an immense market potential. The festival will create awareness about improved varieties of guava and modern farming techniques and processing methods,” he said.

Various guava-based products, such as pickles, juices, pulp and sweets, were showcased at the festival and information about new opportunities was provided to the farmers and entrepreneurs.

Both Mr. Birla and Mr. Meena visited the exhibition stalls, interacted with farmers and scientists and reviewed new agricultural technologies. With the participation of over 10,000 farmers and the display of more than 30 varieties of guava, the festival is expected to emerge as a landmark initiative for promoting guava cultivation and agro-processing.