Ashwagandha Transforms Farmer's Fortune: Roots Alone Fetch ₹300/kg, High Profits

• Khandwa farmer Rakesh Patel switched from traditional crops to Ashwagandha, achieving significant financial improvement.
• Ashwagandha is a cash crop where roots, seeds, and leaves are all sold, minimizing loss and ensuring good returns.
• Cultivation costs are low, requiring only 4-5 kg of seeds per acre (₹500/kg) and minimal fertilizer/pesticides.
• Dried Ashwagandha roots sell for ₹150-₹300/kg, yielding ₹1 to ₹1.5 lakh per acre in 5-6 months.
• The crop thrives in normal soil and offers a strong income source, inspiring other farmers in Khandwa.