Intro: If you want to make farming a profitable deal in today’s time, then you will have to move forward from old methods. Drip irrigation is a method that helps in giving more production with less water. Let’s know how.
Key points:
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What is drip irrigation?
Drip irrigation is a method in which water is delivered drop by drop directly to the roots of the plants. This does not waste water and the plant takes water as per its requirement.
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Main benefits:
1. Water savings up to 50-70%
2. Production increases up to 20-40%
3. Fertilizer consumption is reduced (with fertigation)
4. Use in more crops is possible
5. Grass and weeds are reduced
6. Work is done with less labor
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Main parts of drip system:
Water Source: Tank, borewell or pond
Main Line: Thick pipe through which all the water is supplied
Sub-Main & Laterals: Thin pipes that are laid in the field
Emitters/Drippers: These are fitted on the pipe, which release water drop by drop
Filter & Fertigation Unit: For cleaning water and mixing fertilizer
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In which crop should drip irrigation be done?
Vegetables: Tomato, Chillies, Brinjal, Onion
Fruits: Grapes, Banana, Pomegranate, Mango
Cash Crops: Cotton, Sugarcane
Medicinal Crops: Aloe Vera, Ashwagandha
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Cost and Subsidy:
Cost per acre: ₹25,000 to ₹45,000 (depends on quality of pipe)
Government Subsidy:
Central + State Governments provide subsidy up to 50-90%
Apply under Agriculture Department or PMKSY Scheme (Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana)
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How to get drip system installed?
1. Contact the agriculture department
2. Get the land surveyed
3. Get government approval (Aadhar, Khatauni, bank passbook, farm map etc. will be required)
4. Get it installed from an authorized dealer
5. Subsidy will be paid later in the account
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Precautions:
Clean the pipe from time to time
The filter should not be dirty
There should be no mud or particles in the water
Maintain the pressure correctly (1-1.5 bar)
1. Benefits:
30-60% water savings
20-40% increase in production
Savings of both fertilizer and labor
2. Cost and subsidy: The central and state governments provide subsidy of up to 50-90% on drip systems.
Conclusion: If you want to get more profit from farming at low cost, then drip irrigation is an excellent option. Get information today and make your fields smart.
Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus) is a cactus species fruit which is very profitable to cultivate with less water and less maintenance. It has good demand in the market and it bears fruit for 20–25 years.
Tropical climate is required (20°C – 30°C temperature, 70–80% humidity).
It should not be too hot or cold.
It grows well in shaded areas (under areca nut, coconut, or banana).
Well-drained loamy or red soil is best.
2. Planting:
Propagation is done by cuttings (use healthy cuttings of 30–60 cm).
Mix neem cake and organic compost in it and plant it.
Plant at a distance of 2.5 ft x 2.5 ft.
Each plant should have a support (trellis or tree) so that the vine can climb.
3. Pollination:
Natural pollination is rare; hand pollination is required.
Each flower has to be manually pollinated (more labour-intensive).
4. Irrigation:
Light irrigation, but avoid water-logging.
Drip irrigation is a good option.
5. Food & Disease Control:
Give living manure (FYM), neem cake, compost.
Fungal infection is common, so spray fungicide timely.
6. Harvesting:
Vanilla pods are obtained after 3 years.
Pods mature in 6–9 months.
When the tip of the pod becomes light yellow, then it should be plucked.
7. Processing:
After plucking, the pods have to go through blanching, fermentation, drying, curing process.
Processing can take 4–6 months.
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Benefits of Vanilla farming:
High-value crop: 1 kg vanilla beans cost ₹15,000–₹40,000/kg (depends on quality).
Export demand: High demand in US, Europe.
Intercropping is possible — extra income by planting under other trees.
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Vanilla’s income (Profitability):
Item Value (approx)
1 acre mein plants 1000–1500
1 plant yield 400–600 grams (dry beans, after 3rd year)
1 acre total yield 400–900 kg (dry beans)
Market price ₹15,000–₹40,000 per kg
Total revenue ₹60 lakh – ₹3.5 crore (per acre)
Cost (setup + maintenance, 3 yrs) ₹10–15 lakh
Net profit (after 3rd year) ₹40 lakh+ per acre
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Note:
There is no income in the first 2–3 years.
Hard work and patience both are required.
Processing and pollination is skilled work.
Government subsidies and training programs are available (check with KVK or horticulture department).
1. On how much land do you want to cultivate vanilla? (Example: 1 acre, 5 acres, or on a small scale in the backyard of the house) 2. Do you have shady trees (such as coconut, betel nut, banana)? Or would you like to install Artificial Tracell System? 3. How much is your budget? (eg ₹ 5 lakh, ₹ 10 lakh + or initially limited budget) 4. Do you have your own land or rent? 5. How active do you want to be in marketing? Want to sell just raw materials or do export or online marketing by processing (dried vanilla beans)?
Very good question! Vanilla is not only used for fragrance or flavour, but is also a valuable ingredient in the health, cosmetics, and food industries.
Fragrance products (Perfume, Body lotion, Incense sticks)
Ayurvedic and herbal products
Abroad (export market):
America, Europe, Japan, Australia, Canada are the biggest buyers.
International companies like Nestlé, Unilever, L’Oréal, P&G use it extensively.
> The demand is increasing every year, because the fragrance and health benefits of real vanilla are much more effective than fake flavours.
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2. Where is vanilla used?
Use Area Description
Food Industry Ice Cream, Chocolate, Sweets, Milk, Sharbat, Bakery
Cosmetic Perfume, Lotion, Soap, Cream
Herbal/Ayurvedic Medicine Tonic, Oil, Body Fragrance Enhancing Products
Aroma Therapy Used to reduce stress and depression
Home Products Air Freshener, Candle, Attar
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3. Health Benefits of Vanilla:
Reduces stress and anxiety – Its fragrance calms the mind.
Antioxidant properties – Protects cells by removing free radicals from the body.
Helpful in digestion – Beneficial in stomach disorders.
Useful for skin – Beneficial in acne and blemishes due to anti-bacterial properties.
Keeps the heart healthy – According to some studies, it reduces the risk of heart diseases.
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Conclusion:
Vanilla is a high-demand, high-profit, and multi-use crop — in demand both domestically and internationally, especially in the food and cosmetic industries.
Black pepper is a vine, it needs support (such as a tree or pole).
Transplant during monsoon (June-July).
1,000–1,200 plants can be planted in one acre.
Fertilizer and irrigation:
Add organic manure (cow dung, vermicompost).
Drip irrigation system is best.
Caution:
There should be no waterlogging.
Do pest control from time to time.
How to earn income from black pepper?
Production:
1–2 kg of dry black pepper can be obtained from one plant (after 3–4 years).
Production up to 400–600 kg from one acre.
Price:
The price of dry black pepper in the market can be ₹500–₹700/kg (or more).
Income Estimation (1 Acre):
500 kg x ₹600 = ₹3,00,000 (approx.)
Cost: ₹50,000–₹70,000
Net Profit: ₹2,30,000+ (per year)
Can also be exported – after processing and grading.
Health Benefits:
Improves digestion power.
Helps in weight loss.
Increases immunity.
Antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties.
Beneficial in respiratory diseases (cough, cold).
Where is the demand for black pepper high?
In India:
Production and consumption both in Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu.
High demand in big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad.
Abroad:
Huge demand in America, Europe, Middle East, Russia.
Used as a spice and also in Ayurvedic products. Absolutely! Here is a business plan and marketing strategy for pepper farming — from small farmers to entrepreneurial level:
Black Pepper Farming Business Plan
Land selection and preparation
Size: 1 acre (for example)
Location: Hilly/moist area (like Kerala, Jharkhand, Northeast, or Konkan region of Maharashtra)
Support trees or poles (like betel nut, coconut, or artificial poles)
Cost estimate (for 1 acre)
Component Estimated cost (INR)
Plants (1000–1200 vines) ₹30,000 Arrangement of support plants/poles ₹15,000 Fertilizers (organic+chemical) ₹10,000 Irrigation (drip system) ₹20,000 Labor and maintenance ₹15,000
Pest control and medicines ₹5,000
Total cost ₹95,000
Potential income (from Year 3)
Production: 500 kg/acre
Selling price: ₹600/kg
Total income: ₹3,00,000
Net profit (after deducting cost): ₹2,00,000+
Note: Investment will be high in the first 2 years, but profits will be consistent from the 3rd year onwards.
Marketing and Sales Strategy
Target Market:
Spice markets (Kochi, Delhi, Mumbai)
Ayurvedic companies
Wholesale spice traders
Online marketplaces (Amazon, Flipkart, BigBasket)
Export agents/companies abroad
Branding and packaging:
Create a brand called “Organic Black Pepper” or “Hill Forest Black Pepper”.
Make beautiful, airtight packaging (100gm, 250gm, 500gm)
Digital Marketing:
Promote on Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp groups.
Create a YouTube channel and share the farming journey (will increase trust)
Registration on local websites (IndiaMart, TradeIndia)
Preparation for export:
Get license from FSSAI and Spice Board India.
Join B2B platforms like Alibaba, ExportersIndia.
Tie up with local export agent.
If you mean “Herbal Uses of Black Pepper”, then complete information is given below:
Black Pepper: A Powerful Herbal Medicine
Black pepper is not only a spice, but it also has great importance in Ayurveda, Unani and herbal medicine.
Main Herbal Properties:
Property Description
Increases appetite, improves digestion.
Beneficial in cough, cold, asthma.
Nerve strengthener, useful in fatigue, weakness.
Anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant, increases the ability to fight diseases.
Helps in weight loss, speeds up metabolism.
How to use in herbal form:
Decoction of black pepper:
Boil water by adding 2–3 black peppers, basil leaves, ginger, cinnamon.
Consume 1-2 times a day — panacea for cold and cough.
Honey + black pepper:
In case of cough or sore throat, mix 1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder with honey and lick it.
Pepper Oil:
Used externally for pain and swelling.
Black pepper powder + turmeric:
Beneficial for boosting immunity and gas, indigestion.
Ayurvedic name and formula:
Sanskrit name: Maricha
Famous formulation: Trikatu Churna (dry ginger + chilli + long pepper) — useful for digestion and obesity.
Precaution:
Taking it in excess can cause stomach irritation or allergy.
Pregnant women should consume it after consulting a doctor.
America is one of the most developed agricultural countries in the world. Farming there is completely based on machines, technology, data and precision management. Below is information about some major American agricultural techniques:
america modern farming techniques
1. Precision Farming
GPS and satellite mapping analyze the fields.
Each part of the field is given different fertilizers, water and pesticides.
This increases production and reduces costs.
2. Drone Technology
Drones are used to monitor the field, check crop health and spray pesticides / fertilizers.
It saves both time and cost.
3. Sensor Based Farming (IoT Farming)
Sensors that measure moisture, temperature and nutrients in the soil are installed in the fields.
The farmer can take decisions by looking at real time data from the mobile app.
4. Automated Tractors and Robotics
GPS-guided tractors plow the fields without a driver.
Robots plant, harvest and remove weeds.
5. Hydroponic and Vertical Farming
Growing crops in water and nutrient solution without soil.
Indoor vertical farming is growing rapidly in cities.
6. Data Analytics and AI
By collecting data of crops, it is told that:
Which crop to plant when,
How much water to give,
When can the disease occur.
7. Genetically Modified Crops (GM Crops)
Crops with high production and disease resistance.
Such as – GM corn, soybean, cotton etc.
8. Smart Irrigation System
Drip and sprinkler systems have been connected to sensors and timers.
This conserves water and plants get water as per their requirement.
Conclusion:
America’s agriculture is no longer based on “jugaad” but on science, data and technology. These technologies are now coming to India as well – like drones, sensors, smart tractors etc.
Plants are prepared from root cuttings instead of seeds
Irrigation:
Does not require much water
Irrigation once in 20–25 days in summer
Weed control:
Weeding is necessary for the first 2–3 months
Organic manure (such as cow dung manure) is beneficial
Preparation and harvesting:
The crop is ready in 18–24 months
The roots are uprooted and dried in the sun
Then sold in the market
Benefits of liquorice:
Used in Ayurvedic medicines It is
Useful in cough, sore throat, stomach ailments
Crop that grows in less water – beneficial in dry areas
8–12 quintals of dry roots can be obtained in 1 acre
Its price in the market is ₹150–300 per kg
Introduction
Muleti, commonly known as Mulethi or Licorice, is a highly valued herb in traditional medicine and the pharmaceutical industry. Known for its natural sweetness and numerous health benefits, Mulethi has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda, Unani, and Chinese medicine.
This blog post will guide you through the complete journey of Muleti—from its health benefits and multiple uses to cultivation practices and the market potential for farmers. Whether you are a health enthusiast or a farmer looking for a profitable crop, this guide is for you.
What is Muleti (Mulethi)?
Muleti, scientifically called Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to parts of Asia and Europe. The root of this plant is primarily used for its medicinal properties and natural sweetness, which is about 50 times sweeter than sugar.
Mulethi is known for its licorice flavor and is commonly used as a natural sweetener in candies, beverages, and traditional medicines.
Health Benefits of Muleti (Mulethi)
Muleti is packed with bioactive compounds that offer various health benefits. Here are some of the scientifically proven advantages of Mulethi:
1. Soothes Sore Throat and Cough
Mulethi acts as a natural expectorant, relieving throat irritation and reducing cough. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it effective for treating respiratory issues.
2. Aids Digestive Health
It promotes digestion by stimulating the production of gastric juices and reducing inflammation in the stomach lining, helping with conditions like indigestion and gastritis.
3. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
The compounds in Mulethi help reduce inflammation and protect cells from oxidative stress, which can prevent chronic diseases.
4. Supports Immune System
Mulethi boosts immunity by stimulating the body’s defense mechanisms against infections.
5. Skin Health and Anti-Aging
Its antioxidant content helps fight skin aging, reduces pigmentation, and treats skin conditions like eczema and acne.
6. Regulates Blood Sugar
Studies suggest Mulethi may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for diabetic patients.
7. Hormonal Balance and Stress Relief
Mulethi helps regulate cortisol levels, aiding in stress management and hormonal balance.
Uses of Muleti (Mulethi)
Mulethi’s versatile nature makes it popular across various industries:
1. Herbal Medicine
Used extensively in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine for treating respiratory, digestive, and skin ailments.
2. Natural Sweetener
Due to its intense sweetness, Mulethi is used as a sugar substitute in candies, beverages, and herbal teas.
3. Cosmetic Industry
Mulethi extract is used in skincare products for its anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening effects.
4. Food Industry
Used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages.
5. Pharmaceutical Industry
Used in the preparation of cough syrups, lozenges, and other medicines.
How to Cultivate Muleti (Mulethi)?
If you are a farmer looking to grow Muleti, here is a detailed guide on cultivation practices.
Climate and Soil Requirements
Mulethi grows best in subtropical to temperate climates.
It requires well-drained sandy loam to loam soils with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0.
The plant thrives in areas with moderate rainfall (500-1000 mm annually).
Propagation Methods
Mulethi is propagated through seeds or root cuttings.
Root cuttings are preferred for faster establishment and better yield.
Land Preparation
Prepare the field by plowing and leveling.
Add organic manure or compost to improve soil fertility.
Planting
Plant root cuttings or seeds at the onset of the monsoon season.
Maintain spacing of about 30-45 cm between plants and 45-60 cm between rows.
Irrigation
Regular irrigation is essential during the initial growth period.
Once established, Mulethi can tolerate moderate drought.
Fertilizer Application
Apply nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers based on soil testing.
Organic fertilizers are recommended for better root quality.
Weed Control
Keep the field weed-free during early growth stages.
Mulching can help suppress weed growth.
Pest and Disease Management
Common pests include aphids and root-knot nematodes.
Use organic pesticides or neem-based sprays to control pests.
Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot disease.
Harvesting
Roots are harvested after 2-3 years when they attain optimum size.
Carefully dig roots to avoid damage.
Clean and dry roots properly before storage or sale.
Market Potential and Profitability of Muleti Farming
Muleti has a strong demand in both domestic and international markets due to its medicinal and industrial uses.
Domestic Market
High demand in Ayurvedic pharmaceutical companies.
Growing popularity in herbal tea and natural sweetener segments.
Export Market
India is one of the leading exporters of Mulethi roots and extracts.
Major importing countries include the USA, Europe, and the Middle East.
Price Trends
Prices fluctuate based on quality, root size, and market demand.
Typically, good quality dried roots fetch ₹150-300 per kg.
Profitability
Investment is moderate with good returns due to multiple uses.
Intercropping with short-term crops can increase overall farm income.
How to Process Muleti (Mulethi) Roots for Sale?
Cleaning and Drying
Wash roots thoroughly to remove soil.
Dry them under shade to retain medicinal properties.
Grinding and Packaging
Roots can be ground into powder for easier packaging and usage.
Store in airtight containers to prevent moisture absorption.
Tips for Buying Quality Muleti Products
Look for organically grown Mulethi with no chemical residues.
Choose products with proper certifications like Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia.
Avoid products with added sugars or fillers.
FAQs About Muleti (Mulethi)
1. Is Muleti safe for everyone?
While generally safe, excessive consumption can cause side effects. Pregnant women and people with high blood pressure should consult a doctor before use.
2. How much Mulethi should I consume daily?
Typically, 1-3 grams of Mulethi powder per day is considered safe for adults.
3. Can Mulethi help with weight loss?
Mulethi supports metabolism but should be combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
Conclusion
Muleti (Mulethi) is not only a valuable medicinal herb but also a promising crop for farmers looking to diversify and boost income. Its extensive health benefits, combined with strong market demand, make Mulethi cultivation a profitable and sustainable agricultural venture.
Whether you are a health-conscious individual or a farmer, understanding Muleti’s potential can open doors to new opportunities in herbal health and agriculture.
