Farmers Use Burnt Oil for Water Chestnut Harvesting

Farmers in Chhatarpur grow water chestnuts, a winter crop, by spending months in stagnant water.

They cover their bodies with burnt motor oil to protect against skin infections and other dangers like snakes and crabs.

Each vine can produce up to 15 chestnuts, but this year, heavy rains destroyed half of Jayswaroop's crop.

Despite the risks, farmers like Jayswaroop continue this work because it can be profitable when conditions are good.

The oil is their only affordable protection, as medicines are too expensive.

This farming requires a lot of strength and patience.