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G. Chandrashekhar

Rajasthan is a large producer of field crops such as coarse grains and oilseeds. It is the country’s largest producer of coarse grains (nearly 7 million tonnes out of national output of 38-40 million tonnes) including maize in which the State ranks third.

It ranks first in rapeseed/mustard output (the most important Rabi season oilseed) and third in soyabean (kharif season). Groundnut and sesamum are also cultivated, so also pulses. It is home to a variety of seed spices and accounts for almost three-quarter of the country’s guar output.

Varied agro-climatic conditions support cultivation of a variety of horticulture crops as well as medicinal and aromatic plants.

This large and varied production base affords an attractive investment opportunity for entrepreneurs to set up modern processing facilities, especially for seed spicesAccess to produce from neighbouring States is an added attraction. The two existing AEZs in Rajasthan process coriander and cumin.

The State boasts of a large number of solvent extraction plants that produce oilseed extractions. New ventures include production of high fructose corn syrup and peanut butter as well as processing of herbal and medicinal plants – isabgol, henna, senna and need-based bio-pesticides.

A ground-breaking initiative relates to the cultivation of olive trees inabout 250 hectares, given the Mediterranean climatic conditions and water constraints. The trees will start bearing fruit by 2012.

Livestock rearing and poultry processing are other major activities with large investment potential. Integrated dairy farms with milk processing facilities and processing of meat are areas that offer attractive opportunities. There is scope for setting up modern integrated poultry processing plants.

Dry-land agriculture would be most suitable.There are opportunities in the management of the supply chain. Setting up of modern terminal markets and wholesale markets will help infuse operational efficiency in the marketing chain.

More Stories on : Foods & Food Processing

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