Raipur: Lemongrass cultivation is emerging as a highly profitable alternative for farmers in water-scarce and barren land regions of Chhattisgarh. The crop requires minimal water and maintenance, yet offers significantly higher returns compared to traditional farming.
Once planted, lemongrass can be harvested for 5–6 years, making it a long-term income-generating cash crop.
Government Initiative to Support Farmers with Free Plants and Training
The Chhattisgarh government, through the Chhattisgarh Tribal, Local Health Tradition and Medicinal Plant Board, has launched a new initiative aimed at supporting farmers in low-water areas.
Under this program:
- Free saplings of improved lemongrass variety are being distributed
- Farmers are receiving free training on cultivation techniques
- Focus is on improving income in drought-prone regions
Officials including Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap and Board representatives have emphasized the need to support farmers struggling with water scarcity.
“Abdul Kalam” High-Yield Variety Introduced
The board has introduced the improved lemongrass variety “Abdul Kalam” (CPK-F2-38), developed by scientists.
Key features of this variety include:
- High citral content of 75–80%
- Suitable for perfume, flavor, and fragrance industries
- Used for extracting essential oils in high-demand markets
This makes it a valuable crop in the global aromatic and industrial sectors.
Suitable for Low Rainfall and Poor Soil Conditions
Lemongrass farming is particularly suitable for areas with:
- Low rainfall
- Sandy loam soil
- Good drainage conditions
The crop is planted with a spacing of 40×40 cm and can thrive even in challenging agricultural conditions.
Higher Income with Water Conservation Benefits
Experts say lemongrass not only increases farmers’ income but also contributes to:
- Water conservation
- Soil improvement
- Sustainable land use
The crop is reported to generate 3–4 times higher income than conventional crops, making it a strong alternative for rural farmers.
Awareness Drive on Earth Day
On the occasion of Earth Day (April 22), the board will launch a special awareness campaign to educate farmers about the benefits of lemongrass cultivation.
The campaign aims to:
- Promote cultivation in water-stressed areas
- Increase farmer participation
- Encourage sustainable agricultural practices
A Sustainable Future Crop for Farmers
Officials believe the “Abdul Kalam” lemongrass variety could transform rural livelihoods by offering a low-cost, high-return, and environmentally sustainable farming option, while also supporting water conservation and ecological balance in the state.
