At 53 years of age, Shri Minjo Basar, a progressive farmer from Gori-II village under Basar Circle, has demonstrated how informed decisions, scientific guidance, and perseverance can transform unused land into a sustainable source of income.
Recognizing the growing demand for Assam lemon in the district, Shri Basar developed a keen interest in its cultivation. He observed that the fruit fetched premium prices after being transported from Assam, indicating a strong market potential. The crop's unique characteristics—including its hardy nature and year-round fruit availability compared to other citrus fruits—further strengthened his confidence in taking up its cultivation.
Motivated by these opportunities, Shri Basar decided to utilize his old jhum land at Gori village, which had remained uncultivated for several years, for Assam lemon cultivation.
Seeking scientific support, he approached the ICAR-AP Centre, Basar, where he received technical guidance and quality planting material under the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP). The Centre provided him with 200 Assam lemon saplings for planting over an area of 0.2 ha at a spacing of 3 m × 3 m under organic management. He was also trained in the organic management of pests and diseases to ensure healthy crop growth.
To maximize the productivity of the orchard during its initial years, Shri Basar adopted intercropping by cultivating short-duration legume crops such as soybean along with seasonal vegetables in the interspaces. This not only generated additional income but also ensured efficient utilization of the available land.
His efforts began yielding encouraging results. In July 2026, the five-year-old orchard produced approximately 1,200 kg of Assam lemon fruits. Selling the produce at the prevailing local market price of ₹30 per kg, he earned a gross income of ₹36,000. With a total production cost of ₹14,000, Shri Basar realized a net income of ₹22,000, achieving a benefit-cost ratio of 2.57.
As the orchard matures, the yield is expected to increase further, resulting in higher returns and an even better benefit-cost ratio.
Encouraged by the success of his venture, Shri Basar now plans to expand the cultivation of Assam lemon and acid lime to cater to the growing demand in the local market. With continued technical support from the ICAR-AP Centre, Basar, he aspires to become a role model for young farmers and inspire others in the region to adopt scientifically managed horticultural practices for sustainable livelihoods.
(Source: ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, AP Centre, Basar)
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