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Water chestnuts or singhara help with hydration and are rich in protien. Including it in regular diet also helps with conditions like thyroid and hair loss
Water chestnuts are typically priced around Rs 100 per kg, though as Chhath Puja approaches, the prices can drop to Rs 60 per kg. (Local18)
India is an agrarian country where a variety of farming methods are practised. While most types of farming are done on land, some, like singhara (water chestnut) cultivation, are done in water. This fruit is grown in areas waterlogged by rain.
Farmers in Bhagalpur, Bihar, especially, cultivate water chestnuts on a large scale. Speaking to Local18, farmers said that water chestnuts can be grown in fields prone to waterlogging, which would otherwise remain unusable, and the fruit also fetches a good price in the market.
Elaborating on the cultivation process, farmers noted that it is similar to paddy cultivation. First, seedlings are planted, then uprooted and transplanted into the soil at various locations. The fruit is harvested only one month each year, and its significance is highlighted by its use in Bihar’s prominent Chhath festival.
According to reports, farmers use fertilisers and pesticides for water chestnut cultivation. There is currently no government subsidy provided for this crop but it is expected that if cultivated on a larger scale, the government will likely take notice.
Benefits of Water Chestnuts
Agricultural scientist Anita Kumari highlighted the numerous health benefits of water chestnuts. Consuming this fruit increases hydration, and it is also rich in protein. Including this fruit in your regular diet reduces the likelihood of conditions such as thyroid. Additionally, it helps prevent hair loss and maintains hair colour.
Water chestnuts are typically priced around Rs 100 per kg, though as Chhath Puja approaches, the prices can drop to Rs 60 per kg.
- Location :
Bhagalpur, India
