Poppy seeds, also known as Poppy Seeds in English, is a multipurpose and profitable crop. It is beneficial for health as well as taste. But its cultivation is controlled by the government in India because opium is also obtained from it. In this article we will know how poppy is cultivated, what are its benefits, which products can be used to earn money, and how to get a license for it.
- Identification and use of poppy seeds
The small seeds of poppy are mild in taste and are used in sweets, vegetables, bakery products. Apart from this, poppy oil is also used in medicines, cosmetic products and medicines like opium.
- How to cultivate poppy seeds
Climate and soil
Cold and dry climate is suitable for poppy seeds.
Loamy or sandy loam soil with good drainage is best.
Sowing time
Sowing should be done between October and November.
Seed quantity and method
3–4 kg seeds per hectare is sufficient.
Keep the distance between rows 25–30 cm.
Irrigation and care
First irrigation should be done 20 days after sowing.
After that, irrigation should be done every 15–20 days.
Weeding is necessary to remove weeds.
Harvesting
The crop is ready in 120–140 days.
Seeds are taken out from the pods and dried.
- Income from poppy cultivation
Product Use Market Price (approx.)
Poppy Seed Bakery, Sweets, Medicines ₹1000–₹2000/kg
Poppy Oil Catering, Skincare ₹2000–₹3000/litre
Opium Gum Pharmaceutical Companies Government Fixed Price
Poppy Powder Cosmetic, Ayurveda ₹1500+/kg
If proper care is taken even in a small plot, then 8–12 quintals can be harvested from 1 hectare. This can give good income to the farmers.
- How to get license for poppy cultivation
For poppy cultivation in India, it is necessary to get a license from Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN), Gwalior.
Process of obtaining license:
- Apply:
Apply on CBN website http://cbn.nic.in.
- Documents required:
Aadhaar card
Land proof
Past production details (if any)
- Field inspection:
CBN officials will inspect your land.
- License issued:
After approval, you will be allowed to cultivate a limited amount.
Note: Cultivating poppy without a license is illegal and can lead to fines or jail.
- Poppy products and marketing
Where to sell poppy seeds and oil?
Local grocery merchants
Bakery and sweet shops
Ayurveda brands like Patanjali, Baidyanath
Online platforms like Amazon, Flipkart
Opium trade
Supplied only to the government.
The rate is decided by the government.
Conclusion
Poppy cultivation is a profitable and versatile crop, but proper license and precautions are necessary for it. If you are a responsible farmer and want to farm legally, poppy seeds can be a gold mine for you.