A study on economic viability of Moringa in dryland regions of Maharashtra: With special reference to value addition and export aspects

Abstract

India is the largest producer of a drumstick (Moringa); several benefits can be derived from all parts of Moringa. Moringa is coming into view as future crop considering its wider adoptability and tolerance to the severe drought conditions. The present work was taken up to investigate the economic viability of the production and local as well as global demand of Moringa, its value addition and export aspects. More than 80% of the Moringa products demand is fulfilled by India. It is essential to develop a roadmap to engage its potential for the well-being of humankind. The global Moringa Products market estimated to be over US$ 4.6 billion is highly dependent on India. With the unification of Moringa farming, Moringa processing, Moringa value addition and export, incomes and livelihoods of dryland people will be supported because Moringa cultivation is economically viable and it gives multifold income with low cost of investment. Hence, Moringa Agriculture fosters the sustainable growth and in future may provide opportunities for new green revolution.