Processed Water Chestnuts Boost Farmer Profits, Subsidies Available

• Baghelkhand farmers can significantly increase profits by processing water chestnuts instead of selling them raw, which spoil quickly and yield low returns.
• Processing units, ranging from ₹2 lakh to ₹25 lakh, can be started with low investment; basic peeling machines cost ₹15,000-₹45,000.
• Processed products like flour, chips, and snacks have higher value, longer shelf life, and year-round demand, especially during festivals like Navratri.
• The Pradhan Mantri Micro Food Processing Enterprise (PMFME) Scheme offers up to 35% subsidy for setting up water chestnut processing units.
• Branding processed water chestnuts as gluten-free, nutritious products can create a strong market identity and golden opportunity for farmers.

Why It Matters: Processing water chestnuts with government support offers Baghelkhand farmers higher profits and market stability.