Production, marketing and processing of Fox nut: A case study of Tulsi Mahila self-help group of Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh

Abstract

Fox nut is an aquatic plant belonging to the Nympheace family. Commonly known as Gorgon's nut or fox nut. In India fox nut is grown in the state of Bihar, parts of Assam, Chhattisgarh and Manipur. Over 85 percent fox nut is solely produced by Bihar. A decent source of carbohydrates, proteins and minerals is present in fox nut. The research was carried out in Dhamatari District of Chhattisgarh. One SHG which is cultivated fox nut in pond system, 1 processor from the conventional system was chosen as a research sample. The overall cost of cultivation of fox nut which was Rs. 87820.56, the Gross return which was Rs. 248000 per hectare. Yield of fox nut is 2480 kg per hectare and Net return is Rs. 175491.14. The cost of processing per kg of the fox nut seed is Rs. 8.69 while the cost of processing fox nut pop was Rs. 26.07 per kg. The role of human labour in the manufacturing process is essential in the absence of processing machines. Registration of geographical indication (GI) and the value added items for fox nut with sufficient publicity will increase demand for fox nut pop. Lack of scientific knowledge cultivation, no ownership of pond, insufficient enhanced crop diversity, highly skilled operation, lack of credit facility. Constraints in processing of fox nut Issues related to the processing of fox nuts seeds were reported during the survey by processors are lack of equipment for manufacturing, lack of facility for credit, strong environment dependency for drying, health risk. High price volatility, lack of transport infrastructure, inadequate market services are major constraints in faced by fox nut cultivation. Input output ratio of Fox nut is 1:2.83.