Gujarat Farmers Turn to Millet Cultivation for Higher Profits

Ahmedabad : Farmers in the remote villages of Sanand, Bavla, and Viramgam talukas near Nal Sarovar, where water resources are limited, are increasingly shifting towards millet farming. With minimal investment and no irrigation requirements, crops like Moraiyo (Barnyard Millet) are yielding high returns, transforming the agricultural landscape of these rain-fed regions.

Profitable Millet Cultivation at Minimal Cost

Many farmers in this region previously struggled due to the lack of irrigation facilities, relying only on monsoon rains. However, by shifting to millet farming, they are now earning substantial profits with minimal costs. Farmers sow just 500 grams of Moraiyo seeds, costing around ₹50, in one bigha of land. Within 90 days, they reap an average yield of 15-20 maunds per bigha, generating an income of approximately ₹25,000.

Kashirambhai Surabhai Vaghela, a progressive farmer from Khicha Jham in Sanand taluka, has been practicing natural farming since 2013. Observing the potential of millet crops, he introduced them to fellow farmers in the area. Recognizing their benefits, several farmers have now adopted millet farming as a sustainable and profitable alternative.

Low Maintenance and Double Benefits

Unlike conventional crops, Moraiyo cultivation does not require chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or additional irrigation. Even in years of poor rainfall, the crop matures quickly, ensuring a stable income. Additionally, since Moraiyo is harvested early, farmers can sow wheat in time for the winter season, leading to higher wheat yields. This dual-cropping approach significantly boosts their overall income.

According to Atma Project Director K. K. Patel, millet cultivation is an excellent alternative for farmers practicing low-water or rain-fed farming. He emphasizes that this shift allows them to generate more revenue while reducing their dependency on expensive inputs.

Training and Support for Farmers

Kashirambhai Vaghela played a crucial role in promoting millet farming by providing training in 50 villages across Sanand, Bavla, and Viramgam talukas. His journey in natural farming began in 2016 when the Gujarat government launched a natural farming campaign. Recognized for his efforts, he received an award under the Atma Project.

Later, he collaborated with Tata Nano Motors Vehicle Company Limited and Dharti Charitable Trust to expand his training initiatives. Through his programs, 10-15 farmers in each village have adopted natural farming practices, ensuring better sustainability and higher profits.

Market Opportunities for Millet Farmers

The increasing interest in millet farming has also attracted buyers. Natural Uplift Farmer Producer Company Limited purchases naturally grown millets from farmers, processes them at a dedicated unit, and markets them efficiently. Plans are underway to set up a new processing unit, ensuring that farmers receive fair prices while preserving the nutritional value of their produce.

Farmers in these villages firmly believe that Moraiyo and Banti (another variety of millet) offer better financial returns than traditional paddy cultivation.