Archive · 30 Sep 2025
Jharkhand's Lac: A Rural Livelihood Opportunity
Imagine a tiny insect that makes a special substance called lac.
This substance is used to make all sorts of things, like cosmetics and jewelry.
In Jharkhand, India, many farmers are growing lac, and it's helping them earn more money than before.
The government is even helping these farmers by providing support.
However, there are challenges, such as changes in the weather, pests, and price fluctuations, that can affect how well the lac grows and how much the farmers earn.
Despite these challenges, lac is offering a good way for many families to improve their lives.
Lac, a natural polymer, is a key product used in various industries, providing significant income for Jharkhand farmers.
India is the world's leading lac producer, with Jharkhand contributing significantly to the nation's output.
Lac cultivation has led to increased earnings for farmers, reversing migration to other states.
The Jharkhand government has reclassified lac as agricultural produce, providing access to loans and schemes.
Challenges include market fluctuations, weather sensitivity, and pest vulnerability, which can affect production.
- Who
- Farmers in Jharkhand, India, and experts in the lac industry.
- What
- Lac cultivation is providing economic opportunities and impacting rural livelihoods.
- When
- Lac cultivation has been present for ancient times, and the government took action in April 2023.
- Where
- Jharkhand, India.
- Why
- Lac cultivation offers a potentially profitable alternative to migration and traditional farming, and provides opportunities for rural economic development.
- What is Lac?
- A natural polymer secreted by the Kerria lacca insect, used in various products.
- Main Producing Region
- Jharkhand, India (approx. 55% of India's yield)
- Leading Producer
- India, producing about 85% of the world's lac.
- Farmers Involved
- Around 4 lakh families in Jharkhand
- Market Rate
- Rs 700-Rs 1,000 per kg
- Government Action
- Jharkhand changed lac's classification to agricultural produce.
- Challenges
- Market volatility, weather impacts, pest susceptibility, lack of support.