Boon for Kandi growers as PAU develops ginger farming model post 7-yr research

Despite ginger being used daily by household for its sharp flavour and medicinal benefits, Punjab has long relied on supplies from other states to meet its demand.

Now, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, has developed a region-specific ginger cultivation model that could make the state self-reliant while boosting farmers’ income.

After seven years of research at its Regional Research Station at Ballowal Saunkhri, the PAU has unveiled a complete package of practices tailored for the Kandi region near the Shivalik foothills.

Vice-Chancellor Satbir Singh Gosal said the model had been designed to suit the region’s unique agro-climatic conditions and offers farmers a high-value crop alternative. “This initiative not only meets local consumption but also opens doors for rural entrepreneurship,” he said.

The PAU estimates that an average Punjabi household consumes nearly 1 kg of ginger monthly. To meet this demand internally, around 11,000 acres would need to be cultivated. Trials began in 2018, leading to a protocol that includes raised beds, partial shade and mulching to optimise growth and protect rhizomes. Dr Ajmer Singh Dhatt, Director of Research, highlighted ginger’s compatibility with the Kandi tract’s loose, organic-rich soil and its resilience against wild animal damage. With a production cost of Rs 1.97 lakh per acre and average yields of 70 quintals, farmers can expect gross returns of Rs 4.55 lakh and net profits of Rs 2.58 lakh per acre. The benefit-cost ratio of 2.3 surpasses traditional crops in the region.

The crop matures by November–December, with expected yield of 70–80 quintals per acre. Ginger can be processed into powder, oil, candy and pickle — reducing post-harvest losses and encouraging value-added ventures. The model also addresses seed storage and supports agro-forestry integration.