Bengal farmers shift to broccoli for better returns and growing demand

This change is attributed to the growing demand for broccoli, spurred by its nutritional benefits and economic advantages. The local production of broccoli has seen a significant rise, with daily demand in Kolkata jumping from 1.5 tonnes to nearly five tonnes. This shift is not only driven by health consciousness among consumers but also by the economic benefits that broccoli farming offers over cauliflower.

Broccoli, once a vegetable primarily imported from other Indian states, is now being cultivated extensively in Bengal, particularly in the South 24 Parganas region. This increase in local production has reduced the dependency on imports from the North-East and Karnataka, enhancing the state's agricultural economy. Furthermore, broccoli's stable pricing, unlike the fluctuating prices of cauliflower, ensures a consistent income for farmers, making it a more attractive crop choice.

The expansion of broccoli cultivation in Bengal is also opening up new export opportunities, with the vegetables being sent to countries like Thailand and Bangladesh. This not only adds to the economic incentives for farmers but alsopositions Bengal as a key player in the international vegetable market. Moreover, the state agricultural agency's support in facilitating broccoli cultivation has been pivotal in this green surge, aligning with both health trends and the goal of stabilizing farmers' income.Despite requiring more care and resources for cultivation, broccoli offers higher returns, making it a worthwhile investment for farmers. This is reflective of Bengal's evolving agricultural landscape, where health benefits, economic stability, and export potential are driving a shift towards broccoli over cauliflower in winter farming.