The economics of stevia cultivation in Manipur can be assessed based on the costs and returns associated with the cultivation process. The following are some of the key factors that can impact the economics of stevia cultivation:
1. Cost of Cultivation: The cost of cultivation includes the expenses associated with land preparation, planting material, irrigation, fertilizers, pesticides, labor, and other inputs required for the cultivation process. The cost of cultivation can vary depending on the specific growing conditions, the choice of inputs, and the scale of cultivation.
2. Yield: The yield of stevia can vary depending on the cultivar, the growing conditions, and the agronomic practices adopted. Generally, the yield of stevia in India ranges from 2000 to 3000 kg per hectare.
3. Price: The price of stevia leaves can vary depending on the demand and supply dynamics in the market. Currently, the price of dried stevia leaves in India ranges from Rs. 150 to Rs. 250 per kg.
4. Processing: The processing of stevia leaves into stevia extract or powder involves additional costs such as drying, grinding, and extraction. The value of the final product depends on the purity and quality of the extract or powder.
Based on these factors, the economics of stevia cultivation can be estimated as follows:
Assuming a yield of 2500 kg per hectare and a price of Rs. 200 per kg of dried leaves, the gross returns from stevia cultivation would be Rs. 5,00,000 per hectare. However, the cost of cultivation can vary depending on the inputs and agronomic practices adopted. Assuming a cost of cultivation of Rs. 3,00,000 per hectare, the net returns from stevia cultivation would be Rs. 2,00,000 per hectare.
The economics of stevia cultivation can be further improved by adopting good agronomic practices, selecting suitable cultivars, and ensuring quality processing of the final product. Additionally, access to markets, processing facilities, and financial support can also impact the profitability of stevia cultivation.
Value addition and forward linkages
Value addition and forward linkages can significantly enhance the profitability of stevia cultivation by increasing the value of the final product and creating additional revenue streams. Some of the value addition and forward linkage options for stevia in Manipur are:
1. Processing into Stevia Extracts: Stevia leaves can be processed into stevia extracts that can be used as natural sweeteners in various food and beverage products. The extracts can be sold at a higher price than the dried leaves, and the processing can be done locally to create additional employment opportunities.
2. Stevia Powder: Stevia leaves can be processed into powder form, which can be used as a sweetener in various food products. The powder can be sold at a higher price than the dried leaves, and the processing can be done locally to create additional employment opportunities.
3. Stevia-Based Products: Stevia can be used to create a range of value-added products such as stevia-based confectioneries, beverages, and other food products. This can help create a brand and differentiate the product from other sweeteners in the market.
4. Partnership with Food and Beverage Companies: Stevia growers can partner with food and beverage companies to supply stevia extracts or powder for use in their products. This can help create a stable market for the product and increase the value of the final product.
5. Export: Stevia extracts or powder can be exported to other countries where there is a high demand for natural sweeteners. This can help create an additional revenue stream for the growers and increase the visibility of the product in the international market.
By adopting these value addition and forward linkage options, the growers can create additional revenue streams and increase the profitability of stevia cultivation. However, it is important to ensure that the final product meets the quality standards and regulatory requirements of the target markets to ensure market access and sustainability of the value chain.