Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh): Buoyed by the rising demand, farmers are shifting to Chia Seeds cultivation in Madhya Pradesh’s Jabalpur.
Over 100 farmers of the district have started organic farming of chia seeds across 150 acres of land.
Chia seeds a ‘superfood’
This has not only become a source of economic benefit, but is also proving beneficial for soil fertility and environmental protection. Chia seeds are also known as fat cutter ‘superfood’, and thus are highly preferred especially by the young health conscious generation. These tiny black seeds are rich in fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, magnesium and antioxidants, making it a perfect ingredient of the breakfast smoothies
According to information, farmer Kailash Yadav of Mada village in Patan, Jabalpur initiated the Chia Seeds farming in his region first. Inspired by him, more farmers joined.
Farmer Kailash Yadav (in center) |
Rs 50k profit per acre
Yadav and other farmers are selling their crops in the open market through Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) at a profit of Rs 50,000 per acre. Chia seeds are being sold up to Rs 19,000 per quintal, providing handsome returns to the farmers.
Sharing his experience, Yadav said, “We had to work hard in the beginning to make our land chemical free and reverse the effects of pesticides. Proper guidance and training by the officials of the agriculture helped us work in the right direction.
He further said that the demand of organic products is increasing in the global market. Shifting to natural farming will help farmers connect to the international market, thus helping us earn better financial yields.
