Vetiver (Khas) Cultivation Opens a New Path to Livelihood

Vetiver Farming Transforms the Lives of 368 Women by Reviving Barren Riverbank Land

Raipur, Nov 2025 : Until recently, the sandy and infertile land along the banks of the Mahanadi River was considered useless by the villagers. Cultivation was out of the question — even grass struggled to grow there. But today, this very land has created new hope, new income, and new confidence in the lives of 368 women. The women of Dhamtari district now take pride in the transformation of their lives.

This change was made possible through the combined efforts of the Chhattisgarh Tribal, Local Health Tradition & Medicinal Plant Board, under the direction of Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, Board Chairman Shri Vikas Markam, and the district administration. They wondered if this barren sandy land could be linked to livelihood generation, and the solution emerged in the form of cultivating vetiver (khas)—a medicinal plant that thrives easily in such soil and has high market demand.

It is noteworthy that during July–August, 35 women’s self-help groups from 20 villages enthusiastically planted vetiver on 90 acres of land. From Mandaroud to Dalgahan, Gadadih to Sonwara, Deori to Megha — women across villages stepped into the field of medicinal farming for the first time.

Low Cost, High Returns

The Medicinal Plant Board provided 1.7 million vetiver slips free of cost for planting, along with continuous technical guidance from expert institutions. Gradually, the women realized that this type of farming is not only simple but also offers higher profit at much lower investment.

Vetiver: A Versatile Crop

The aromatic oil extracted from vetiver roots is highly valued in global markets. Its leaves and leftover roots are used to make handicraft products. Additionally, vetiver helps prevent soil erosion and increases organic carbon in the soil, improving soil fertility.

Women Worried About the Market — Board Provided a Solution

The women feared that even if they managed to grow the crop, selling it would be difficult. To address this concern, the Board offered a buyback guarantee of ₹100 per kilogram of dried roots, ensuring a secure income. The women now believe that they can earn between ₹50,000 and ₹75,000 per acre.

A New Direction for Families

Although the vetiver crop will take 12 to 15 months to mature, the women are already smiling with confidence. They trust that their hard work will strengthen their financial condition in the coming years and positively impact their families’ future.

A Symbol of Women’s Empowerment

The state government is committed to promoting medicinal plants. On the Chief Minister’s instructions, the district administration is actively supporting the implementation of this project. Today, this initiative has become more than just farming—it has become a symbol of women’s empowerment.

The story of these 368 women, who are turning barren land into a source of livelihood and self-reliance, is fast becoming the new identity of Dhamtari district.