This Jagraon farmer is minting money

Once you enter the fields of Paramjit Singh Sidhu, you are greeted by dark green leaves and exhilarating aroma that remind you of mouthwash, toothpaste, chewing gum, pain relief balm, hair oils and talcum powder!

Sidhu from Sidhwan Khurd in Jagraon is reaping unexpected profits by growing peppermint, a medicinal crop, on a small patch of land. We often grind mint leaves into a chutney as an accompaniment in our meals or prepare mint majito for a hot summer day.

“It has been more than 20 years that I have been growing mint in my fields. Many farmers in our village also started growing the same. Some are still continuing, while others left. It is ideal for plugging the gap between the rabi and kharif crop and I reap the bonus from the cash crop that comes in addition to the traditional food crops. I am growing the traditional crops, wheat and rice, along with the potato crop,” he said.

Paramjit generally invests Rs 15,000-Rs 20,000 per acre and earns around Rs 50,000 profit acre from the crop. Currently, he is growing peppermint on 50 acres.

After harvesting, he sells the leaves to a nearby distillation unit which extracts oil from the leaves known as “peppermint oil” and sells these to be marketed by companies. The oil is widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, aromatherapy and many other products and, thus, those who indulge in its farming, have no problems marketing it. Drugs prepared from mint are used in the treatment of nasal problems, rheumatism, carminative and bronchial treatment. The oil is in great demand overseas and is exported in bulk from India.

The benefit about mint farming is that no rats or animals come in this field, but a lot of earthworms grow in the soil, making it fertile for the next crop. As the crop is there in the fields, the land is moist for the next crop rice, which then needs less irrigation in the fields.

“Mint farming is successful due to its high yield potential, low maintenance, consistent market demand and ability to generate significant income. Compared to other crops, mint requires relatively minimal care, making it suitable for farmers with limited resources. It is a widely used ingredient in various products, from chewing gum and candy to toothpaste, oils, balms to beverages, and ensuring a steady market for the produce,” said Sidhu with a refreshing minty smile on his face.