Bhubaneswar, Aug. 14 -- https://images.odishatv.in/uploadimage/library/16_9/16_9_0/recent_photo_1755147046.webp
Khanduru village in Polasara block of Odisha's Ganjam district, once famous for its thriving betel cultivation, is now witnessing a steep decline in the practice. Farmers, who for generations cultivated betel leaves as a profitable crop, are increasingly turning away from it due to alleged lack of government support, persistent monkey menace, and the declining demand caused by the widespread use of gutkha.
According to locals, the number of betel farms has dropped drastically from hundreds to barely seven to 10 in the area. Many farmers who once sustained their families solely through betel cultivation are now forced to take loa...