In a strategic move to accelerate agricultural diversification in Ferozepur, now one of the state’s premier vegetable hubs, authorities are establishing a Chilli Development Centre. This initiative, part of NITI Aayog’s Aspirational District Programme, involves an investment of ₹59 lakh aimed at transforming the district’s chilli farming landscape.
Deputy Commissioner Deepshikha Sharma unveiled the details of the project, highlighting its potential to significantly uplift the chilli cultivation sector. “From just 805 hectares in 2017-18, chilli farming in Ferozepur has surged to 2,732 hectares by 2024-25. This centre will further enhance farmers’ incomes and agricultural output by providing integrated support services,” Sharma explained.
Ferozepur, recognized as the state’s top chilli producer, has been selected under the ‘One District, One Product’ (ODOP) scheme, underscoring its pivotal role in the state’s agricultural framework. The district boasts a robust horticultural base, with 19,233 hectares allocated to various horticultural crops out of a total sown area of 2,04,000 hectares. This includes 1,119 hectares of fruit cultivation, 16,429 hectares dedicated to vegetables, 56 hectares for flowers, and 1,629 hectares for spices and aromatic plants.
Horticulture Officer Simran Singh emphasized the district’s commitment to crop diversification over the past five years. “We have been encouraging farmers to transition from traditional wheat cultivation to more lucrative cash crops. Chilli farming, in particular, has proven to be a water-efficient alternative, fitting well into the region’s agricultural calendar with its October-to-July cycle. This allows for the cultivation of short-duration rice varieties in the subsequent kharif season.”
The new Chilli Development Centre is set to offer a suite of services aimed at enhancing cultivation practices. Farmers will benefit from advanced cultivation techniques, expert advice, high-quality seeds, and comprehensive input support. Additionally, the centre will facilitate direct market linkages, ensuring that growers can access better prices and wider markets for their produce.
Sharma added, “By consolidating all these services under one roof, we aim to strengthen the entire value chain of chilli production in Ferozepur. This holistic approach will not only boost productivity but also ensure sustainable growth for our farmers.”
With horticulture playing a significant role in Ferozepur’s economy, the establishment of the Chilli Development Centre marks a pivotal step towards realizing the district’s agricultural potential. As Ferozepur continues to lead the state in chilli production, initiatives like these are expected to set benchmarks for other regions aspiring to diversify and enhance their agricultural output.
