Lac Farming

Source- This post on Lac Farming is based on the article “President Droupadi Murmu bats for lac farming” published in The Hindu on 20th September 2024.

Why in News?

Recently, President Droupadi Murmu advocated for lac farming during the centenary celebration of the ICAR-National Institute of Secondary Agriculture (NISA) in Ranchi.

About Lac farming

1. Definition: Lac farming involves the cultivation of lac insects, primarily Kerria lacca on host trees. These insects secrete a resin which is harvested to produce lac, a natural resin used in various industries.

2. Importance for Tribal Communities: Lac is predominantly produced by tribal communities in India, providing a vital source of income. It is a key livelihood activity in states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal.

3. Applications of Lac: Lac is widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food processing, and even in making varnishes and polishes. Its non-toxic and biodegradable properties make it valuable in diverse sectors.

4. Economic Potential: Lac farming has immense economic potential, with many farmers earning substantial profits from it. The rising demand in both domestic and international markets, especially in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, underscores its significance.

5. Role of Secondary Agriculture: Lac farming falls under secondary agriculture, which includes value addition to primary agricultural products. It also promotes sustainable use of resources and increases farmer income by utilizing agricultural waste.

6. Challenges in Lac Farming: Key challenges include the need for improved quality, supply chain efficiency, and marketing strategies to enhance Indian lac’s competitiveness in the global market.

7. Government Support and Training: The government is offering training programs to help farmers enhance their lac farming techniques through institutions like ICAR-NISA. The government plans to train 5000 farmers annually aim to improve yields and income.

8. Need for Policy Support: The government also emphasized the need to recognize lac as an agricultural product so that farmers can benefit from various government schemes, including increasing the minimum support price (MSP).

9. Environmental Impact: Lac farming has a low environmental impact and contributes to sustainable agricultural practices by utilizing forest resources without causing deforestation.

10. Research and Technological Advancements: Institutions like NISA are working on automation, robotics, and AI-enabled equipment to advance lac farming practices, enhancing both productivity and quality.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy