Gujarat has introduced India's first biofortified cherry tomato varieties, Anand Lalima and Anand Kundan, developed entirely through local agricultural research at Anand Agricultural University. These new varieties can be grown in open fields or kitchen gardens without greenhouses, and their seeds can be reused year after year, significantly reducing costs for farmers compared to expensive imported hybrids. The tomatoes are climate-resilient, disease-resistant, and rich in nutrients such as lycopene and beta-carotene, making them valuable for both nutrition and farmer profitability.

The release marks a shift towards value-driven farming, offering steady income and lower risks through continuous fruiting and adaptability to Indian conditions. Cherry tomatoes, once a niche crop limited to gourmet kitchens, are now poised to become a staple in Indian households and a potential export commodity. With higher yields, longer shelf life, and suitability for natural farming, these varieties promise benefits for farmers, consumers, and home gardeners alike. The development reflects a broader trend in Indian agriculture towards self-reliance, nutritional security, and sustainable cultivation.