PRAYAGRAJ, Dec. 31 -- Farmers in the Shankargarh and Meja development blocks of the trans-Yamuna region of Prayagraj are transforming conventional farming practices by adopting protected cultivation and cultivating high-value exotic vegetables.

Once characterised by rocky and unproductive land, these areas are now witnessing thriving crops of lettuce, zucchini, parsley, asparagus and broccoli grown inside polyhouses and nethouses. By shifting away from traditional crops like wheat and mustard, farmers are earning lakhs of rupees and supplying fresh produce to select retail outlets and premium hotels across Uttar Pradesh, according to district horticulture officials.

Spurred by rising demand from health-conscious consumers, guests and fo...