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With minimal risks, low input costs, and assured markets, the plant is rapidly becoming the symbol of a new rural economy in the region
Farmers reported earnings as high as Rs 50,000 per quintal, making the crop significantly more lucrative than traditional alternatives
Farmers in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district are steadily moving away from conventional crops and embracing medicinal cultivation, with Ashwagandha emerging as the new favourite. Encouraged by high returns, cultivators say the plant could soon dominate the region’s agricultural landscape.
Last year, Ashwagandha was sown across nearly 200 acres in the district. Farmers reported earnings as high as Rs 50,000 per quintal, making the crop significantly more lucrative than traditional alternatives. Owing to this success, the acreage under cultivation is expected to more than double this season, crossing 500 acres. The sowing period begins in October, and farmers have already started preparing their fields.
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Prashant Patel, a farmer from Rahli Rajwas who has been cultivating Ashwagandha for two years, has become something of a resource person for others. Sharing his methods, he said, “Deep plowing and leveling of the field is essential before sowing. Afterward, leave the field fallow for a few days to allow the soil to become loose. The crop is ready in five months.”
Patel further explained the process, saying, “7 kgs of seeds per acre should be sown through a seed drill and irrigated twice initially. Water again after about 25-30 days, and irrigate again after a month and a half. The special thing is that this crop requires neither fertiliser nor pesticide. Even animals do not harm it. Seed, straw, and root will all be used.”
The economics of the crop are equally compelling. According to Patel, cultivation costs are around Rs 20,000 per acre. However, every part of the plant is saleable. Straw fetches Rs 8 per kg, while seed is priced at Rs 5,000 per quintal, with an acre yielding about 3 quintals, enough to cover input costs.
The root, considered the most valuable, produces 3–6 quintals per acre, fetching between Rs 30,000 and Rs 50,000 per quintal. On average, farmers can earn a profit of up to Rs 1.25 lakh per acre, ten times their investment.
Agricultural experts note that the district’s growing inclination towards medicinal crops could make Sagar a key hub for Ashwagandha production in the coming years.
Sagar, India, India
September 30, 2025, 19:03 IST
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