Introduction
Red chilli, also known as “mirchi” in Hindi, is a quintessential spice that adds fiery flavor to Indian cuisine. Its vibrant color and intense taste make it a staple in kitchens across the country. In this blog, we’ll explore the production of red chilli powder in Maharashtra and India, along with fascinating export statistics.
Red Chilli Production in India:
India is a global powerhouse when it comes to spice production, and red chillies are no exception. Let’s dive into some key facts:
- Variety: India boasts around 400 different types of chillies, each with its unique flavor profile and heat level.
- Economic Contribution: The overall economic contribution of chillies in India was over 130 billion Indian rupees in the financial year 2020.
- Consumption: India is one of the largest consumers of chilli. Green chillies, rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, are a healthy addition to Indian cuisines. Capsaicin, the compound responsible for their spiciness, also aids in regulating blood sugar levels and burning body fat.
State-wise Production:
Let’s take a closer look at the top red chilli-producing states in India:
- Andhra Pradesh: The largest producer of chillies, Andhra Pradesh contributed over 627,000 metric tons in the fiscal year 2023.
- Telangana: Following closely, Telangana produced a significant amount of chillies.
- Madhya Pradesh: Another major player in chilli production.
- Karnataka, Orissa, West Bengal, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh also contribute to India’s spicy bounty.
Maharashtra’s Role
- Annual Production: Maharashtra produced approximately 22,434 tones of red chillies in the year 2019-20, ranking seventh among Indian states. This accounted for 1.22% of the total red chilli production in India.
- Cultivated Area: Red chillies are cultivated over 6,508 hectares in Maharashtra.
- Yield: The yield per hectare stands at 3,447 kilograms.
Export Statistics
India exports about 30% of its red chilli production.
- Major Exporters: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra are key players in the export market.
- Exported Quantity: India exports approximately 1,376,000 million tons of red chillies annually.
- Domestic Consumption: The remaining 70% is consumed domestically.
Price Trends
Chilli Prices: The price of red chillies can fluctuate. For instance, in March 2023, the expected trading range was between Rs. 16,500 – 19,000 per quintal. Red chilli powder production in Maharashtra and India is a fascinating blend of tradition, agriculture, and economics. From local kitchens to international markets, these fiery little peppers continue to spice up our lives!
I hope you enjoyed this spicy journey! If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask.
