Stories
Khandwa's Vermilion to Europe: Farmers Eyeing Rs 450/kg for Organic Crop.
- •Khandwa's vermilion crop is set to reach European and other international markets.
- •Export to Europe requires organic certification, production process monitoring, and adherence to quality standards.
- •Krishi Namami CEO Sunil Pandole aims to plant 1 lakh vermilion saplings in the initial phase.
- •Expected yield: 3.8 kg per plant by the third year, increasing to 10 kg or more by the fifth year.
- •Farmers anticipate Rs 150/kg locally, with potential for up to Rs 450/kg in the international market based on quality.
- •Women farmers in Khandwa are also experimenting with new crops, opening new income opportunities through vermilion cultivation.
Key Questions Answered
The vermilion crop from Khandwa is expected to fetch prices up to 450 rupees per kg in the European market. A minimum price of about 150 rupees per kg has been discussed, with possibilities of better international rates based on quality and certification.
In the initial phase, about 1 lakh vermilion saplings are targeted for planting in the district. By the third year, a single plant is expected to yield approximately 3 kg 800 grams, with production increasing to an average of 10 kg or more per plant by the fifth year.
Farmers must maintain complete records of the cultivation process, input usage, and traceability, while adhering to strict organic standards, quality controls, and necessary documentation. Krishi Namami will cover the costs associated with this certification process.
