The Gujarat Government has decided to rename dragon fruit as “Kamalam” as the outer shape of the fruit resembles a lotus, said Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.
“The State government has decided rename Dragon Fruit. As the outer shape of the fruit resembles a lotus, hence Dragon Fruit shall be renamed as Kamalam,” said Rupani. “The name of dragon fruit is associated with China and we have changed it,” he added.
Kamalam in Sanskrit means Lotus. Dragon Fruit that has become increasingly popular in recent years, is a tropical fruit with a unique look and taste.
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Over the past few years, the Dragon Fruit has become a popular addition to the diet in the country and has emerged as a money-spinner for farmers in Gujarat, mainly in Bhuj, Gandhidham, and Mandvi.
In July last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had mentioned the fruit in his monthly radio show “Mann Ki Baat” and had given a shout-out to the farmers of Kutch for growing the imported fruit as part of his government’s mission of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India)”.