Chia gamble turns into a profit breakthrough for farmer in Bidar

Kalaburagi: Farming in Bidar district was limited to black gram, soya and sugarcane crops only. Thus, growers suffered repeated losses and got into debt. A farmer who decided to break this circle took to growing chia and is now earning huge profit.Farmers in Bidar got into one difficulty after another and suffered losses. In addition, they repeatedly planted one crop. In a move towards becoming financially stable, farmer Anand of Shamshanagar village in Bidar taluk started growing chia on one acre of his land.Speaking to TOI, farmer Anand said he collected information about chia crop on the internet, bought seeds, grew the crop successfully and is now a role model for local farmers.Chia has nutritional as well as medicinal properties. This crop can be grown comfortably without the threat of cattle or wild animals. Chia can be grown in the same way as millet. Farmer Azhar Mastan said that chia that can be grown without dependence on excessive water. Chia is in high demand internationally. In dry weather, sprinkler irrigation once a week is sufficient. Harvest can be obtained in 90 to 100 days. Growing it will cost Rs 3,000 to 4,000 per acre.The plant can be cultivated and planted, or seeds can be sown directly in rows. It is enough to apply chemical fertiliser only once. Chia, a commercial crop that can be grown in the local climate, yields 4 to 5 quintals per acre. The market price is Rs 14,000 to 19,000 per quintal, and farmers can earn more profit.Chia grain is high in calcium, magnesium and phosphorus and hence is in high demand in the market. Consuming this grain strengthens the bones. Farmers say that it is scientifically proven to control blood pressure, blood sugar, diabetes, and help with better digestion. Farmers engaged in chia cultivation say that once planted, this crop can be grown with zero capital.Farmers do not have much information about the chia crop or its market in Bidar district. Therefore, only a few farmers have turned to this crop as of now, says farmer Revanasiddaiah.