Study on Kusmi lac production in Central Narmada valley, Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

The present study evaluates the seasonal performance of Kusmi lac (Kerria lacca) cultivated on Schleichera oleosa in the Central Narmada Valley agro-climatic zone of Madhya Pradesh, India. Data were collected during the 2019–2020 cropping seasons from seven villages in the Narmadapuram district, involving 70 lac-growing farmers. Two seasonal crops, Aghani (winter) and Jethwi (summer) were compared based on lac yield per tree, yield per foot lac stick, fresh and dry weight of 100 lac cells. Results showed no statistically significant difference in lac yield per tree or per foot stick between the two seasons, with the Jethwi crop marginally outperforming Aghani in both parameters. However, the Jethwi crop exhibited significantly higher fresh and dry biomass per 100 lac cells, indicating enhanced resin deposition during the summer season. This suggests that while total yield may not vary significantly, qualitative aspects such as resin density and cell biomass are superior in the Jethwi crop. These findings highlight the adaptability and year-round potential of Kusmi lac cultivation on S. oleosa, offering insights for optimizing lac production under central Indian conditions.