India, July 20 -- Farmers across western Maharashtra, including Satara, Sangli, Kolhapur, Nashik, Pune rural, Solapur, Ahmednagar, and Raigad districts, are increasingly turning to the cultivation of lemongrass and citronella as a lucrative income source. The shift is being fueled by the growing demand for citronella-rich essential oils used in wellness and cosmetic products.

These regions are considered ideal for aromatic crops due to moderate rainfall, favourable soil conditions, and the adaptability of local farmers.

Estimated 50,000 acres land under cultivated for the two medicinal plant in Maharashtra in 2024, which was almost none five years ago.

Rajendra Jadhav, a farmer from Wai in Satara district who recently began cultivating...