Comparing Profits from Traditional and High-Value Crops
“I want to grow something that earns well but I don’t want to take unnecessary risks.”
A farmer from Banswara, Rajasthan
During a Sahyoga pilot conversation
For generations, wheat has been the go-to Rabi crop across northern and western India. It’s familiar, relatively stable, and supported by procurement systems. But in recent years, some farmers have started asking a new question: “Is wheat still the most profitable choice for my land?”
At Sahyoga Organics, we work directly with farmers who want to increase their income without increasing their risk. And we’ve found that chia and quinoa, two high-value Rabi crops, are gaining traction, not as replacements for wheat, but as alternatives worth serious consideration.
Wheat: Reliable but Flat Margins
Wheat remains one of the most secure crops in India. It benefits from MSP (Minimum Support Price), is well-understood, and has strong demand. But with rising input costs and market price fluctuations, the net returns per acre often stagnate.
Cultivation Cost: ₹18,000 – ₹22,000 per acre
Yield: 2,000–2,200 kg
Market Price: ₹20 – ₹23 per kg
Net Profit: ₹20,000 – ₹30,000 per acre
This profit range is decent but not transformative. And in drought-prone regions or poor soil, wheat yields can drop significantly.
Chia & Quinoa: Smaller Acreage, Bigger Potential
Chia and quinoa are still niche crops in India, but they are rapidly growing in demand, especially for export markets and health-conscious consumers. What makes them compelling is that they fit into the Rabi cycle, need less water, and command premium prices per kg.
Chia Seeds:
Cultivation Cost: ₹26,000
Yield: 700 kg per acre
Market Price: ₹130 per kg (raw)
Net Profit: ₹65,000 per acre
Quinoa:
Cultivation Cost: ₹26,000
Yield: 1500 kg per acre
Market Price: ₹80 per kg
Net Profit: ₹94,000 per acre
Why Farmers Are Testing These Alternatives
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Same Sowing & Harvest Window as Wheat
No need to change your irrigation or land prep schedule. -
Lower Water Requirements
Chia in particular performs well under semi-arid conditions. -
Export & Health Market Demand
Both crops are part of the global superfood trend. -
Flexible Marketing Channels
Unlike wheat, which relies heavily on APMCs, chia and quinoa can be sold via direct contracts or bulk buyers.
So Should You Make the Switch?
Not necessarily but it may be worth trying on a portion of your land. At Sahyoga Organics, we help farmers:
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Analyze soil and water suitability
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Provide verified seeds and cultivation support
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Ensure buyback agreements to reduce marketing risk
The goal isn’t to abandon wheat, it’s to explore a better margin crop that fits into your existing system.
