Manipur has a suitable climate and fertile soil that make it an ideal region for the cultivation of stevia. The climate in the region is humid subtropical with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C, with abundant rainfall throughout the year, which is ideal for the growth of stevia plants. Stevia thrives in a warm and humid climate, and Manipur provides these conditions. Additionally, the soil in Manipur is generally fertile and well-draining, which is suitable for the cultivation of stevia. The plant requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. The soil in Manipur is generally rich in organic matter and has a neutral to slightly acidic pH, making it suitable for the cultivation of stevia.
Stevia cultivation can be a sustainable source of income for smallholder farmers in the region who are looking for alternative crops that can provide them with a sustainable source of income.. The crop has a high yield per hectare, and the leaves can be harvested up to four times a year. Moreover, stevia is a low-maintenance crop, and it requires less water and fertilizer compared to other crops. This makes it an attractive crop for farmers, especially those with limited resources. Stevia cultivation can be an attractive option for these farmers due to the increasing demand for natural, low-calorie sweeteners in the global market. Stevia can be grown in small plots of land, and it has a relatively short harvest cycle of 3-4 months.
Stevia has a high market demand in both domestic and international markets. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the demand for natural and low-calorie sweeteners, and stevia is becoming a popular alternative to sugar. The global stevia market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.2% from 2021 to 2026. The increasing demand for stevia presents an opportunity for farmers in Manipur State to expand their market and increase their income.
In conclusion, the potential for stevia cultivation in Manipur is significant, and it can provide a sustainable source of income for smallholder farmers in the region. The region’s suitable climate and fertile soil, coupled with the high market demand for stevia, make it an attractive crop for smallholder farmers. With the right support and infrastructure, stevia cultivation can contribute to the sustainable development of the region and improve the livelihoods of farmers. However, to fully realize this potential, there is a need for research and development, extension services, and market linkages for stevia growers in the region.
Assess the market demand for stevia in Manipur State.
The market demand for stevia has been increasing globally due to its natural, zero-calorie sweetening properties. In North East India, there is a growing demand for low-calorie sweeteners as people become more health-conscious and seek alternatives to sugar. Stevia is a potential alternative to sugar, and its demand is expected to increase in the region as awareness about its benefits grows.
Furthermore, stevia has various applications in the food and beverage industry, such as in the production of soft drinks, ice cream, yogurt, and bakery products. The food and beverage industry in North East India is growing rapidly due to the region’s large population and increasing urbanization. As the demand for processed foods and beverages increases, the demand for natural sweeteners such as stevia is also expected to rise.
In addition, the global market for stevia is also growing rapidly, and there is a high demand for processed stevia products such as extracts, syrups, and powders. The global market for stevia is expected to reach USD 1.2 billion by 2026, with a compound annual growth rate of 9.5%. North America and Europe are the largest markets for stevia, followed by Asia-Pacific.
Manipur State can tap into the global market for stevia by producing high-quality stevia leaves and processed products. The region has a favorable climate for stevia cultivation and can produce stevia leaves with high levels of stevioside and rebaudioside A, the two main glycosides responsible for the sweetness of stevia. The region can also process stevia leaves into various products such as extracts, powders, and syrups to cater to the growing global demand for stevia-based products.
However, to fully exploit the market potential for stevia, Manipur needs to develop a robust supply chain, improve processing and packaging facilities, and enhance the quality of the stevia products. The region also needs to develop a strong marketing and distribution network to reach the global market for stevia. Therefore, there is a need for public-private partnerships, research and development, and policy support to realize the full market potential of stevia in Manipur State.