Known to be one of Maharashtra’s ‘Aspirational Districts’, Washim is witnessing a revolution of sorts in agriculture. The district, where most farming relies on dryland methods, has long struggled with unpredictable weather and low productivity from traditional crops. However, an innovative initiative by the Agriculture Department has brought a promising alternative to the forefront in the form of chia cultivation. Chia seeds, derived from the Salvia Hispanica plant, are globally recognised as superfood. Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals, these tiny seeds are highly sought-after for their health benefits, including improved digestion, weight management, and cardiovascular health.

 

Recognising this demand, Washim District Administration has introduced chia farming as a sustainable and profitable crop. Last year, under the guidance of District Collector Bhuvaneshwari S, Agriculture Superintendent Arif Shah and ATMA Project Director Anisa Mahabale, as many as 2,175 farmers planted chia across 870 hectares. The results were transformative with farmers reporting increased incomes and minimal challenges in cultivation. Chia is a game-changer, says Madhav Zamre, a farmer from Kondala Zamre.

 

“It grows well in moderate temperatures, is naturally resistant to pests and animals due to its hairy leaves and unique smell and requires only 110 to 115 days to mature. We have seen yields of 5 to 6 quintals per acre, which is much more profitable compared to traditional crops,” he said. Farmers like Zamre, Datta Bundhe and Vasantha Ingole share similar success stories, emphasising how chia has brought stability to their otherwise unpredictable income. The crop’s low maintenance and high market demand, both domestically and internationally, have added to its appeal. The cultivation process involves planting the crop, uprooting it at harvest, drying, and threshing to separate the seeds. Given its resilience and adaptability, chia can be grown across most parts of India, barring cold and hilly regions. This project not only highlights the importance of diversification in agriculture but also demonstrates the potential of smart crop selection in empowering farmers. With the continued support of the district administration and Agriculture Department, chia farming is poised to become a cornerstone of Washim’s agricultural transformation. The success of this initiative underlines how innovation and administrative resolve can drive positive change, even in challenging environments. Washim is leading by example, showcasing a sustainable path to prosperity for farmers.