Grower Kashinath Khade explained that he owns 9 acres of land and has been farming for 25 years, primarily growing traditional crops like soybean, wheat, and maize. "Due to unpredictable weather and pest infestations, earning a stable profit was always difficult. I was looking for an alternative crop to increase income," he said.
Last year, a private company from Pandhurna approached his village, offering to help farmers grow flowers for fertilizer and medicine production. The company promised to provide seeds and technical guidance, and purchase the harvested flowers at Rs 10 per kilogram directly from the farm. "The offer seemed ideal," he added.
The company provided African marigold seeds at Rs 2,700 per acre, while additional expenses for fertilizers and other inputs cost approximately Rs 10,000 per acre.
Kashinath said, "The crop matures in about one and a half months. Each crop can be harvested around 10 times, and in the first year, I planted African marigold on four acres. The profit per acre comes to around ₹1 lakh. Most importantly, it is a cash crop, ensuring immediate income. Next year, I plan to expand cultivation to all 9 acres."
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