Chilli farmers earn 85% more with ITC!

ITC has successfully partnered with 2 state Governments (Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh) in introducing 'Food Safe Chilli Production' system covering 26 villages, 2150 acres and benefiting 800 small farmers. The project focuses on deploying Sustainable Agricultural Practices and Infrastructure Development in villages with a win-win outcome to all the stakeholders - food safe export potential, environment integrity, social development and increase in farmer income.

Powered by ITC's sustainability philosophy, the farmers under this programme have progressed beyond the normal approach to grow spices and moved towards adopting a more holistic ICE (Integrated Crop Engagement) approach to enhance 'Farmer Profitability' and produce 'Food Safe Spices' meeting the stringent US & EU specifications. The major focus of the programme is to reduce chemical pesticide application in the farm and move towards a biological and physical control method to protect the farm ecosystem.

Role of ITC:

• Deployment of trained agri extension experts in guiding farmers on crop production practices.
• Introduction of contemporary farm technologies and practices to reduce cost and increase productivity & quality.
  • Tray seedling technology to produce quality chilli seedlings
  • Drip irrigation and mulching technology to save water and increase productivity
  • Deployment of Integrated Pest Management tools to tackle pest
  • Customized fertilizers to reduce inorganic fertilizer consumption
  • Post-harvest infrastructure to improve quality and reduce wastage
• Elimination of middlemen and farm gate procurement which helps farmers in reducing transportation cost and additional charges which the farmers would have incurred in chilli market yards.

Key Outcomes:

• 15% increase in crop productivity
• 85% increase in farmer income
• 100% deployment of safe labour practices