किसान ने अपने खेत में बनाया चंदन का जंगल | Chandan Ki Kheti |Sandalwood Farming

Summary

The transcript highlights the journey of a farmer who has successfully cultivated sandalwood on a large scale in Haryana, India. Starting in 2016, the farmer planted sandalwood saplings alongside 'mother plants' that nurture the sandalwood. The video explores the intricacies of sandalwood farming, including the time and financial commitment required, as well as the potential for significant returns in the long term. The farmer shares insights on the cultivation process, challenges, and the future prospects of sandalwood as an investment, offering valuable knowledge for prospective farmers interested in this lucrative yet long-term venture.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sandalwood farming is a long-term investment, with a typical harvest cycle of 12 years.
• 😀 A farmer invested in sandalwood cultivation starting in 2016, focusing on his daughter's future.
• 😀 Sandalwood farming requires a substantial initial investment, with one plant costing ₹2 lakh and 400 plants per acre.
• 😀 The projected revenue from 35 acres of sandalwood could range from ₹30 crores to ₹50 crores after 12 years.
• 😀 Sandalwood plants require a 'mother plant' (host tree like Australian pine) to survive and grow.
• 😀 Plants are parasitic, meaning they need a supporting tree to feed them, ensuring their development.
• 😀 Sandalwood starts producing fragrance after 8-10 years, indicating its ripening stage for harvesting.
• 😀 Farmers need to protect the plants from animals and external threats, especially during the early years.
• 😀 Cultivating sandalwood alongside other crops like vegetables can maximize land use and minimize idle time.
• 😀 The price of sandalwood is regulated by the Karnataka government, with global rates influencing local markets.
• 😀 Sandalwood farming can be a profitable venture, but it requires patience and a long-term outlook, making it unsuitable for quick returns.

Q & A

What prompted the farmer to start sandalwood cultivation?

The farmer started sandalwood cultivation in 2016 after his daughter was born. He wanted to invest in something long-term that would secure a future for her.

What is the main challenge in cultivating sandalwood?

Sandalwood is a parasitic plant, meaning it needs a 'mother plant' to feed it. Without these host plants, sandalwood cannot survive. Additionally, it requires years of care before it starts to become valuable.

How long does it take for a sandalwood tree to mature enough to be valuable?

It typically takes 12 years for a sandalwood tree to mature and begin to yield a valuable fragrance, which increases its market price.

What is the financial potential of sandalwood farming?

According to the farmer, sandalwood farming can yield a substantial profit. With 35 acres of trees, the farmer estimates a minimum of 30 crores in value after 12 years, potentially rising to 50 crores if sold at full market price.

How is the price of sandalwood determined?

The price of sandalwood is not set by state governments but is determined globally, with the Mysore government in Karnataka setting the standard purchase rate, which is the same worldwide.

What type of care is required during the initial years of sandalwood cultivation?

During the first few years, the plants require protection from animals and consistent care. Additionally, farmers should avoid overgrowing them and ensure that they have enough space and resources for optimal growth.

How does sandalwood farming integrate with other types of farming?

The farmer suggests that sandalwood can be grown alongside other crops, such as vegetables, in the interim period. This helps to generate income while waiting for the sandalwood trees to mature.

What is the difference between red and white sandalwood?

Red sandalwood is a different species found mainly in the southern part of India, whereas white sandalwood is grown in northern India. Both types have high value, but white sandalwood is commonly grown for cultivation.

How do the 'mother' plants support the growth of sandalwood?

Mother plants, such as Australian pine wood, nourish the sandalwood plants. These host plants feed the sandalwood, allowing it to grow and thrive, as sandalwood cannot survive independently.

What advice does the farmer have for new sandalwood growers?

The farmer advises new growers to start small, perhaps with 100 sandalwood saplings and 50 mother plants. He emphasizes the importance of patience and hard work, as it takes time to see a return on investment.