• Kashi Shreya is a high-yielding, non-hybrid (Truthfully Labelled) variety of sponge gourd (Luffa aegyptiaca) developed by the Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR) and marketed by the National Seeds Corporation Limited (NSCL).
• Fruit Appearance: Produces dark green, long, and straight cylindrical fruits. They typically measure 20–25 cm on flat beds and can reach up to 32 cm when grown on bower systems.

• Maturity: This is an early-maturing variety; the first harvest is usually ready 50–55 days after sowing.
• Yield Potential: It has a high yield capacity of approximately 150–200 quintals per hectare.
• Disease Resistance: Known for strong field tolerance to Sponge Gourd Mosaic Virus and Downy Mildew.
• Nutritional Value: Higher in protein and carotene compared to standard ridge gourd varieties. 

Cultivation Details

• Suitable Seasons: Ideally grown during both the Summer (Zaid) and Rainy (Kharif) seasons.
• Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-drained sandy loam soil with a pH range of 6.0–7.5.
• Planting Specifications:
  • Seed Rate: 3–4 kg per hectare.
  • Spacing: Recommended distance of 150 × 50 cm with a sowing depth of 2.5–3 cm.
• Recommended Regions: Primarily notified for cultivation in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. 

Product Specifications (NSCL Pack)

• Pack Size: Commonly available in 5 gram pouches.
• Price: Approximately ₹35 to ₹50 for a 5g pack on platforms like Mystore.
• Germination: Minimum germination rate of 60%.