In Jehanabad, Bihar, marigold cultivation is thriving as Diwali, Chhath, and Dussehra drive demand. Farmers like Umesh Prasad report higher earnings than wheat or paddy, supported by the ATMA scheme. Floriculture spreads across several acres, offering year-round income during peak seasons and weddings, with potential earnings up to INR 1 Lakh in favourable periods.
India
-Oneindia Staff
PATNA/JEHANABAD: The festive season, marked by Diwali, Chhath and Dussehra, has driven up demand for marigold flowers across Bihar, creating new income opportunities for farmers in Jehanabad district. By shifting from traditional crops to flower cultivation, local farmers are finding a profitable alternative that also supports the rural economy.
Farmers such as Umesh Prasad in Mahabalipur village have adopted marigold cultivation to meet the growing demand for flowers used in religious ceremonies, festive decorations and other occasions.
In Jehanabad, Bihar, marigold cultivation is thriving as Diwali, Chhath, and Dussehra drive demand. Farmers like Umesh Prasad report higher earnings than wheat or paddy, supported by the ATMA scheme. Floriculture spreads across several acres, offering year-round income during peak seasons and weddings, with potential earnings up to INR 1 Lakh in favourable periods.
Umesh Prasad said marigold cultivation has generated higher earnings for him compared to traditional crops such as wheat and paddy. His experience has encouraged other farmers in the area to explore floriculture as an additional source of income. The expansion of flower farming has also contributed to the economic prospects of the local Mali community, traditionally associated with gardening and flower cultivation.
In Mahabalipur village, marigold farming now covers approximately five to six acres, reflecting the growing interest in commercial flower production.
ATMA Scheme Promotes Scientific Farming
With a large share of Bihar’s population dependent on agriculture, diversifying farm income has become an important focus. Under the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) scheme, the Agriculture Department provides farmers with technical training and seeds to encourage the adoption of modern agricultural practices.
Such support aims to help cultivators improve farming techniques, explore alternative crops and benefit from changing market demand. According to Prasad, marigolds are cultivated three times a year, allowing farmers to maintain production across different seasons. Demand typically rises during major festivals, with another significant opportunity emerging during the summer wedding season.
Seasonal Demand Supports Year-Round Earnings
Marigold cultivation offers farmers opportunities to earn throughout the year, particularly during periods of high demand. The winter festive season provides a major market for flowers used in worship and decoration, while weddings from April to July create another period of strong demand.
Prasad said earnings depend on weather conditions and crop performance. Under favourable conditions, farmers can earn up to ₹1 lakh, while returns may fall to around ₹50,000 during less favourable seasons.
The growing adoption of floriculture in Jehanabad highlights how crop diversification, technical support and seasonal market demand can create alternative livelihood opportunities for rural farming communities in Bihar. For farmers seeking to reduce their dependence on conventional crops, marigold cultivation is emerging as a potential source of improved income and greater financial stability.
