In the heart of Maharashtra, where traditional crops dominate the landscape, one man saw potential in a fruit long overlooked—jackfruit. Mithilesh Desai, an agricultural engineer by training and a visionary by passion, transformed what was once seen as a backyard fruit into a commercial superfood. His journey began with a simple question: why is a fruit so rich in nutrition and resilience not a mainstream crop? With deep-rooted knowledge of soil science and plant biology, Mithilesh embarked on a mission to popularize jackfruit cultivation across the state. What followed was nothing short of a revolution. From experimenting with grafting techniques to training farmers in value-added jackfruit products like chips, pickles, and flour, Mithilesh has changed lives. Today, he is not just a farmer or an engineer—he is the Jackfruit King of Maharashtra. His work has led to the formation of farmer collectives, export channels, and agro-based enterprises centered on this humble fruit. With sustainability at the core, his story proves that with the right vision, even underutilized crops can create abundance, employment, and ecological balance.
From Engineer to Jackfruit Visionary
Mithilesh Desai transitioning from engineering to jackfruit farming
Mithilesh's journey started in a government agriculture department post. However, his dissatisfaction with the status quo and bureaucratic limitations led him back to his family farm. Observing the low-maintenance jackfruit trees in their backyard thriving even during droughts gave him a spark. He began researching its nutritional profile, shelf life, and versatility. Using his engineering background, he experimented with irrigation techniques, tree grafting, and plant health management. Within a few seasons, he had cultivated multiple varieties of jackfruit known for their sweetness and size. Word began to spread and neighboring farmers, curious about his methods, sought his guidance. Mithilesh started conducting training workshops and writing manuals in Marathi on jackfruit cultivation, bridging the gap between lab knowledge and local practice.
Adding Value: Chips, Flour, and Global Demand
Processed jackfruit products reaching international markets
Mithilesh realized that fresh jackfruit had a limited shelf life and market reach. So, he invested in small-scale processing units with solar dryers and slicers to produce chips, flour, and frozen jackfruit. These products quickly gained popularity in urban Maharashtra and even among the Indian diaspora in the US and UK. He onboarded local SHGs and women’s collectives to run these processing units, creating income opportunities while keeping operations decentralized. His brand, now synonymous with premium jackfruit, is a regular at organic expos and retail platforms. His innovations also caught the attention of agricultural universities and agripreneurs, many of whom now follow his model to scale up jackfruit farming across India.
Empowering Farmers Through Jackfruit Cooperatives
Mithilesh Desai mentoring farmers through jackfruit cooperatives
Understanding the limitations faced by individual small farmers, Mithilesh spearheaded the creation of the “Maharashtra Jackfruit Farmers Collective.” This group pools resources for marketing, transportation, and bulk sales. By removing middlemen and selling directly to bulk buyers and exporters, they have increased profits significantly. The collective also organizes seasonal training camps, soil health drives, and shared infrastructure models. Mithilesh continues to advocate for jackfruit’s inclusion in government subsidies and agri-education syllabi. He believes empowering farmers through knowledge and collaboration is more impactful than any policy reform.
A Sustainable Fruit for a Sustainable Future
Mithilesh Desai’s organic jackfruit orchard
Jackfruit, being drought-resistant and low on water input, is one of the most sustainable fruit crops suitable for changing climates. Mithilesh’s farm uses no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. He maintains tree biodiversity, uses mulching, and has installed rainwater harvesting units. His advocacy has now reached platforms like TEDx, agriculture summits, and state panels on sustainable farming. Farmers from Tamil Nadu to Assam have adopted jackfruit farming after following his model. In a time when climate resilience is a necessity, Mithilesh Desai is proving that tradition and innovation can coexist for a better agricultural future.
A King Rooted in Soil and Sustainability
Mithilesh Desai’s journey is a testament to how one man’s vision, backed by knowledge and community spirit, can transform an underutilized fruit into a powerhouse of rural economy and health. The Jackfruit King of Maharashtra has not just built a business—he’s grown a movement.
