Betel Leaf Cultivation: A New Path for Youth in Saran District

• Farmers in Saran district are moving beyond traditional farming to cash crops, with betel leaf cultivation emerging as a highly profitable venture.
• More than half a dozen varieties of betel leaf, including Haldia, Desi, Bangala, and Kalkatiya, are successfully grown in Chhapra, yielding year-round profits.
• Desi betel leaf is the most popular due to its high yield, lower costs, and higher profits, especially with favorable weather conditions.
• Betel leaf cultivation requires specialized skills and hard work, involving the construction of a 'Bareja' (hut-like structure) to protect tender leaves from extreme weather.
• Farmers are seeking expanded government subsidies beyond the current limited scope to make this profitable cultivation accessible to more farmers and encourage youth employment.