Uncategorized

Farmers Astonished: Stevia Leaves 25 Times Sweeter Than Sugar Yield 50-Acre Profit From Just 1 Acre

This week, the third large group of progressive farmers from Dantewada district visited the ‘Maa Danteshwari Herbal Farm and Research Center.’ This farm is notable as the country’s first internationally certified organic herbal farm, previously visited by former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. It is renowned both nationally and internationally for the successful innovations of farmer-scientist Dr. Rajaram Tripathi in organic and herbal agriculture.

Prominent Role of Women

In keeping with the strong tradition of women’s involvement in Bastar’s farming practices, this group included 70% women.

Observations and Innovations

The farmers explored various crops, including black pepper (MDBP-16) cultivated on Australian teak trees and local Bastar trees like Mahua, Mango, Tamarind, Sal, Teak, and Khamar. They witnessed how planting black pepper on trees yields 50 acres of produce per acre of land. The group also examined crops of white musli, long pepper, turmeric, and Desi saffron (sinduri). Additionally, they were impressed by stevia leaves, which are 25 times sweeter than sugar with zero calories, developed under the guidance of CSIR-IHBT, Government of India.

Also read: Supreme Court Dismisses Petition Against BJP’s Lotus Election Symbol

Organizing and Impact

The visit was organized by Anurag Kumar, Dasmati Netam, and Shankar Nag. Despite the farm attracting millions of visitors over the past 25-30 years, local farmers had not yet fully embraced the potential of organic, herbal, and spice farming. The recent visit by the Dantewada farmers, facilitated by the initiative of the Dantewada District Collector, signals a positive shift.

Dr. Tripathi’s Insights

Dr. Rajaram Tripathi emphasized that while entrepreneurial innovators can create successful models through experimentation and practice, only government efforts can ensure widespread adoption. He commended the efforts of the Dantewada and Kondagaon District Collectors, the district administration, the Department of Agriculture and Horticulture, and KVK for their significant contributions to making this initiative successful. He highlighted the vast agricultural potential of the Dandakaranya plateau in Bastar and urged for a positive, forward-looking approach.

Commitment to Sustainable Development

The ‘Maa Danteshwari Herbal Group’ has dedicated itself to the integrated sustainable development of farmers for the past three decades and remains committed to this mission.

Bharat Express English

Recent Posts

PM Modi Interacts With Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla Aboard The ISS

PM Narendra Modi interacted with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to reach the…

56 mins ago

Gautam Adani, Family Participate In Puri Rath Yatra; Launch Massive ‘Prasad Seva’ Initiative

Gautam Adani, along with his wife Priti Adani and son Karan Adani, joined thousands of…

2 hours ago

PM Modi, Leaders Pay Tribute To Former PM PV Narasimha Rao On Birth Anniversary

PM Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao on…

2 hours ago

Gautam Adani Hails Divine Experience At Rath Yatra; Praises Odisha’s Graceful Management

Gautam Adani conveyed profound spiritual emotions after witnessing the revered Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath…

2 hours ago

Punjab’s Litchis Reach Middle East Markets In Boost To India’s Fruit Exports

In a step towards diversifying India’s horticultural exports, Punjab has successfully shipped its first consignment…

2 hours ago

Dalal Street Sees Strong Activity Of IPOs In June As Market Sentiment Improves

India’s primary market experienced a surge in activity in June 2025 as investor sentiment toward…

3 hours ago