Tamarind trees emerge as a profitable option for farmers

Tamarind trees, which grow without fertilizers or irrigation, are emerging as a profitable option for farmers.

Chhatapati Sambhajinagar : In an era marked by rising fertilizer and irrigation costs, tamarind trees, which thrive without such inputs, are presenting themselves as a lucrative prospect for farmers.

Especially when planted on the borders of farms, a single tamarind tree can generate an annual income of Rs 20,000, experts at the Akola Krishi University are highlighting.

These trees commence fruiting at around 10 years, yielding 1.5 to 2 quintals of tamarind. Considering the current market price of tamarind ranges from Rs 7,000 to Rs 13,000 per quintal, and after deducting minimal expenses, farmers can expect to pocket around Rs 20,000 to Rs 22,000 from a single tree.

Tamarind, a staple ingredient in Indian cuisine for chutneys, sauces, pickles, and beverages, is also processed into health drinks by European countries. The seed powder is used to clean copper and brass utensils.

Agricultural universities have developed improved varieties like Pratishtan No. 263, Akola Smruti, and Ajanta Sweet Tamarind, renowned for their superior yield and quality.

Compared to naturally grown tamarind trees, which start fruiting at 18 to 20 years, grafted tamarind trees begin fruit production in 10 to 12 years, with an initial yield of about 50 kg.

The size and productivity of these trees increase annually. In the first five years, farmers need to apply fertilizer twice. When mixing the fertilizer, dry leaves, manure, and single super phosphate are included in the planting pit to ensure the healthy growth of the tamarind tree.

After five years, a single dose of manure, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is sufficient.

Moreover, tamarind does not require frequent irrigation, making it suitable for semi-arid regions.