Chia seeds, widely known as a superfood, are now proving to be “white gold” for farmers. Compared to traditional crops such as wheat, gram, and other cereals, chia cultivation offers better output at a lower cost, making it a fast-growing source of higher income for farmers.
District, chia farming was introduced as an innovation in the Patan sub-division, starting with just 5 acres. Over time, the cultivation area has expanded significantly and has now reached nearly 250 acres. At present, around 100 farmers across Patan, Shahpura, Sihora, Majhauli, Jabalpur, and Kundam development blocks are engaged in chia cultivation.
On Monday, officials from the Agriculture Department visited the field of farmer-engineer Abhishek Mukherjee in Bhadpura village of Shahpura development block to review the chia crop. The inspection team included Joint Director of Agriculture K.S. Netam, Deputy Director of Agriculture Dr. S.K. Nigam, and Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (Patan) Dr. Indira Tripathi.
According to agriculture officials, the cost of fertilizers and pesticides in chia farming is almost negligible. Due to the distinctive aroma of its leaves, even animals do not damage the crop. Chia seeds are rich in omega-3, fibre, and protein, which is why market demand is steadily increasing.
The crop matures within 90 to 120 days and can be easily grown during the rabi season. Another major advantage is that it requires very little water. Seed requirement is also low—around 1.5 to 2 kg per acre is sufficient.
Farmer Abhishek Mukherjee said he started chia cultivation after detailed research and study. He got in touch with the Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer, Patan, and with the support of Kailash Yadav—one of the first farmers in the district to adopt chia farming—he began cultivation across 15 acres.
He added that he has not used any chemical fertilizers or pesticides so far. Only farmyard manure was applied once, along with a neem oil spray. The entire crop is being grown using organic methods.
Advice to Build a Market Independently: During the field visit, Joint Director K.S. Netam advised farmers not to rely only on Neemuch mandi for selling chia seeds. Instead, they should focus on developing their own market channels, as current demand for chia seeds is very high.
Lower Cost, Higher Returns: Deputy Director Dr. S.K. Nigam stated that the total cost of chia farming from sowing to harvesting comes to around ₹6,000 to ₹7,000 per acre. Production can range between 4 to 6 quintals per acre. Depending on quality, the market price may range from ₹14,000 to ₹18,000 per quintal.
FAQs on Chia Farming:
Q1. How much does chia farming cost per acre?
A1. The total cost ranges from ₹6,000 to ₹7,000 per acre, including sowing to harvesting.
Q2. What is the average yield of chia per acre?
A2. Farmers can expect 4 to 6 quintals per acre depending on crop quality.
Q3. Does chia require high water consumption?
A3. No, chia farming requires very little water compared to traditional crops.
Q4. Can chia be grown organically?
A4. Yes, chia can be grown completely organically using farmyard manure and neem oil.
Q5. Where can farmers find market support for chia seeds?
A5. Farmers are encouraged to develop their own market channels but can also explore platforms like Khetivyapar for market guidance.
