- Chhattisgarh farmers have got a new opportunity to earn additional income through the scheme “Money Tree on the Farm Boundary”.
In Chhattisgarh, an innovative initiative has been launched to strengthen the economic condition of farmers by connecting them with medicinal farming alongside traditional agriculture. Under the direction of Forest and Climate Change Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, the Chhattisgarh Tribal, Local Health Traditions and Medicinal Plants Board is implementing an innovative scheme called “Money Tree on the Field Boundary.” Under this scheme, farmers are being provided free asparagus plants so that they can utilize the vacant field boundaries and security fences as a source of additional income.
- One plant, double benefit – protection of fields and bumper income too
Asparagus is a thorny, medicinal plant that offers farmers dual benefits. Because of its thorny nature, planting it on field boundaries provides comprehensive protection for crops from cattle and stray animals. By growing asparagus in vacant, unused areas of the boundary, farmers can earn millions of rupees in additional income.
- Huge demand in pharmaceutical industries and medicinal properties
The tuber of asparagus has remarkable medicinal properties, which is why its demand in the Ayurvedic and herbal medicine industries is constantly increasing. Its primary use is in the manufacture of medicines. It is used to alleviate physical weakness and increase strength, to increase lactation in lactating mothers, and to reduce body swelling, pain, and mental stress.
- Key features of the scheme and government assistance
To encourage farmers, the Medicinal Plant Board is providing support at every level. Farmers are being provided with asparagus plants (free plants) as per their needs, all they need to do is contact the Medicinal Plant Board. The Board will provide training on the entire technology, from planting to harvesting and preparing the bulbs. To ensure farmers do not have to wander around to sell their produce, the Board has already arranged for contracted buyers (experienced buyers) who will purchase the produce directly from farmers. The asparagus crop matures in approximately 16 months. Once harvested, it provides a regular and assured source of income for farmers for many years.
- Rural economy will get a boost
Board Chairman Mr. Vikas Markam has described this scheme as beneficial to farmers, like a “milch cow.” Meanwhile, Board Vice Chairman Mr. Anjay Shukla says this scheme will prove to be a milestone in alleviating farmers’ concerns about guaranteed income. The “Money Tree on the Farm Border” scheme is not only promoting the conservation of medicinal plants in rural Chhattisgarh, but is also opening a new and secure path to profit for farmers, amidst the costs of traditional farming.