Lemongrass Processing Plant to be set up in Mayurbhanj

Mayurbhanj, Aug 5: A lemongrass processing plant will be set up in Lodha dominated at Anlakuda panchyat of Sulipada block in Mayurbhanj district informed Deputy Director of Horticulture Department, Dharanidhara Patra here.

The lemongrass processing plant was needed as the horticulture department last year have cultivated this special type of grass in 40 hectares which would fetch maximum margin for tribal cultivators. A litre of lemongrass oil sold is being at Rs 800 in domestic market.

Lemongrass oil is being used by cosmetic companies in making soap, perfume, shampoos and other products to add lemon aroma. The lemon grass cultivation on 40 hectares of land in the block would strengthen their livelihood of local tribal in the district.

Patra said that the cultivation of lemongrass will not only generate more revenue but also provide real employment to the needy farmers of the district. A technical firm based in Andhra Pradesh has been roped in for setting up the processing plan as the lemongrass need to be processed for oil extraction within 24 hours of cutting else it will be dried up.