Exploring the Potential of Salicornia: A Joint Venture by Mukti and Jagran Pehel

Ms. Ambika Sukumar, Senior Associate at “Jagran Pehel,” visited Mukti Gram PurbaSridharpur on September 17, 2023, to explore Salicornia, also known as Zero grass, which thrives in Sundarbans saline river embankments. The visit was part of the collaboration between Mukti and Jagran Pehel to evaluate Salicornia’s standing as a functional food source and a potential cash crop with myriad industrial applications in the realm of saline agriculture. Salicornia could diversify the current food supply chain, and create sustainable livelihoods for the members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), since demand for this crop has grown steeply in recent times. This holds particular significance in Mukti’s ambition to reclaim salt-affected lands for productive agriculture.

If the project succeeds, exports to foreign countries with high demand for this crop may also be envisioned. Thus, the synergy between Mukti and Jagran Pehel could be the start of a significant economic transformation in the region.