Farmers can increase their income through green chilli cultivation

For farmers seeking additional earning options alongside traditional crops, green chilli cultivation can be an excellent choice. The specialty of this crop is that there is demand in the market throughout the year, allowing farmers to sell it from local markets to large mandis. Additionally, farmers can harvest the crop multiple times after it matures, which serves as a stable source of income.

According to reports, green chilli cultivation can be undertaken by both small and large farmers. Those who wish to try this crop initially can cultivate it in a small portion of their field to gain experience regarding market conditions and production. Loamy soil with good drainage is considered most suitable for this crop. Since waterlogging in the field can damage the roots of the plants, it is essential to ensure proper drainage arrangements while preparing the field.

The selection of seed variety plays a very important role in cultivation. Farmers can use hybrid and improved varieties such as Kashi Ratna, Kashi Jamuna, Arun-99, and VNR-6013. These varieties yield higher production and have a greater capacity to fight certain diseases. However, not every variety is suitable for every region; therefore, it is necessary to seek advice from local Krishi Vigyan Kendras or agricultural experts before purchasing seeds.

The cultivation process begins with preparing seedlings by sowing seeds in a nursery. For this, certified and high-quality seeds should be selected. Plants in the nursery should be watered as needed and protected from pests and diseases. Generally, healthy seedlings are ready for transplanting in the field within 30 to 35 days. Proper spacing should be maintained between plants during transplanting to provide sufficient space for growth.

Regular maintenance is necessary after transplanting in the field. Weeding should be done periodically through hoeing to ensure that weeds do not deplete the nutrients of the plants. The irrigation method should be based on the soil and weather. Specifically, there should be no shortage of water during flowering and fruit formation, but simultaneously, water should not accumulate in the field. The use of fertilisers and nutrients should be done according to soil testing and expert advice.

Fruits begin to appear on the plants approximately 50 to 60 days after transplanting. This period may vary depending on the selected variety, weather, and cultivation method. Harvesting should be done when the chillies are fully developed and fit for sale in the market. While harvesting, fruits should be plucked carefully so that branches or other crops are not damaged.

A major advantage of green chilli cultivation is that there is no need to harvest everything at once. Depending on the condition of the crop, farmers can pluck chillies every week or at intervals of 8 to 10 days. If there is proper care and favourable weather, harvesting can continue for several months, enabling farmers to sell produce in the market at different times. However, the duration of production depends on the variety, weather, and health of the crop.

Regarding production capacity, common varieties can yield 200 to 250 quintals per hectare. With improved varieties and best care under favourable conditions, production can reach 300 to 400 quintals per hectare. However, this is the maximum potential production and there is no guarantee. Actual production depends on soil, seeds, weather, irrigation, fertiliser, and pest control.

In the calculation of expenditure and earnings, costs include seeds, nursery, field preparation, fertiliser, irrigation, labour, pest control, harvesting, packing, and transportation. These costs may vary across different regions. According to agricultural studies, the cost per hectare may be approximately ₹1.3 lakh to ₹3.3 lakh or more. To estimate earnings, if 250 quintals (25,000 kg) of chillies are produced in one hectare and an average price of ₹40 per kg is obtained, the total sale would be ₹10 lakh. The actual profit can be known only after deducting the costs of cultivation, harvesting, packing, and transportation from this amount. Fluctuations in market prices may also lead to changes in earnings.