Under the esteemed leadership of Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor Dr. Z. P. Patel and Dr. T. R. Ahlawat, Director of Research and Dean P.G. Studies, a new sapota variety—‘Gandevi Murabba: Gujarat Sapota-1’—was officially released from the Fruit Research Station (ICAR-AICRP on Fruits), NAU, Gandevi. This took place during the 21st Combined Joint AGRESCO on Crop Improvement held at Anand Agricultural University, Anand, on May 5, 2025.

The variety was evaluated and developed through the dedicated efforts of Dr. Ankur P. Patel (Unit Head and Horticulturist), along with Dr. Pravin K. Modi, Dr. K. D. Bisane, Dr. A. I. Patel, Dr. Devraj, Dr. C. B. Patel, Dr. Z. P. Patel, Dr. A. N. Patel, Prof. A. R. Patel, and Dr. Tejas R. Ahir.

Key Features of Gujarat Sapota-1:

Dwarf stature: Grows to a height of 6–8 meters, making orchard management easier.

Higher fruit yield: Produces 13.30 t/ha, which is 8.87% higher than the check variety 'Kalipatti' (12.22 t/ha).

Regular bearing habit: With an average of 1,777 fruits per plant.

Average fruit weight: 75–90 g.

Improved shelf life: 6–7 days, which is 2–3 days longer than 'Kalipatti'.

Superior fruit quality:

Total sugar: 19.10%

Non-reducing sugar: 12.98%

TSS: 22.20 °Brix

Phenol content: 0.81%

Acidity: 0.168%

Crude fibre: 7.57%

Crude protein: 0.49%

Calcium: 30.75 mg/100g

Pest resistance: Exhibits lower incidence of bud borer, chiku moth, and seed borer compared to the check variety.

This newly released variety is expected to significantly benefit sapota growers across Gujarat by enhancing productivity, fruit quality, and profitability.