Foxtail Millet Farming
Foxtail Millet Farming Guide for High Yield & Profit
Kakun, which we also call Kangni, Kauni, or in English Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica), is once again becoming the preferred crop of Indian farmers. The main reasons are higher yield with less water, low cultivation cost, and increasing market demand. Considering changing climate and water scarcity, millets like Kangni have become a safe and profitable option for farmers.
The Government of India is also promoting millets, and awareness about coarse grains is increasing rapidly among people. Kangni is used for food, medicine, and animal feed. This is why its cultivation is very beneficial even for small and medium farmers.
Below, we will explain all the important information related to Kakun Kangni cultivation in simple language, just like a fellow farmer would explain.
1. Crop Introduction
Kangni or Kakun is a coarse grain known as Foxtail Millet. It is an annual grass, and its plant grows about 4 to 7 feet tall. Its grains are very small, and their color may be light yellow, brown, or white depending on the variety.
This grain has been cultivated in India for thousands of years. Today, it is again being recognized as a super food because it is rich in protein, fiber, iron, calcium, and vitamins.
Major regions for Kakun Kangni cultivation
In India, it is mainly grown in the following states
- Andhra Pradesh
- Karnataka
- Telangana
- Rajasthan
- Maharashtra
- Tamil Nadu
- Madhya Pradesh
- Uttar Pradesh
- North Eastern states
In Himachal Pradesh
- Sirmaur
- Bilaspur
- Solan
- Shimla
- Mandi
- Kangra
- Hamirpur
- Una
- Kullu
- Chamba
2. Scientific Classification
The scientific name of Kakun is Setaria italica.
- Kingdom Plantae
- Class Monocotyledonae
- Order Poales
- Family Poaceae
- Genus Setaria
- Species Setaria italica
3. Climate and Temperature
Kangni grows very well in warm and dry climates.
- Suitable temperature 20 to 35 degrees Celsius
- Rainfall 50 to 75 centimeters
- Altitude up to 2000 meters above sea level
It does not grow well in very cold areas or in waterlogged conditions.
4. Soil Requirement
Kakun can grow in almost all types of soil, but best yield is obtained in
- Well drained loamy soil
- Light black soil
- Sandy loam
Soil pH between 5.5 and 7.5 is considered best. Water should not stagnate in the field.
5. Seeds and Varieties
Many improved varieties of Kangni are available in India
- SiA 3084
- SiA 3156
- CO 7
- PRK 1
- HMT 100 1
- DHFT 109 3
Local traditional seeds also give good yield if prepared properly.
6. Seed Rate
Seed requirement per acre
- For direct sowing 2.5 to 3 kilograms
- For nursery method 800 grams
Before sowing, soak the seeds in a mixture of milk and water for 10 to 12 hours and then dry them with ash for best results.
7. Land Preparation
Proper land preparation is very important for a good crop.
- First ploughing with soil turning plough
- Second and third ploughing with local plough or cultivator
- Level the field
- Remove all weeds
8. Sowing Method
8.1 Direct Sowing
- Sow seeds at a depth of 2 to 3 centimeters
- Row to row distance 1.5 to 2 feet
- Plant to plant distance 10 centimeters
8.2 Nursery Method
- One acre nursery in one marla area
- Transplanting in 20 to 25 days
- Row distance 1.5 feet
- Plant distance 1 foot
9. Manure and Fertilizer
Per acre
- Farmyard manure 4 to 5 tons
- Nitrogen 16 kilograms
- Phosphorus 8 kilograms
- Potash 8 kilograms
Apply half nitrogen at sowing
Remaining after 30 days
10. Irrigation
Kangni is mainly a rainfed crop.
- Usually rainfall is enough
- In dry conditions first irrigation after 25 to 30 days
- Second irrigation after 40 to 45 days
11. Weed Control
- One weeding 20 to 25 days after sowing
- Second weeding after 40 days
- Using hoe or hand tools
12. Pests and Diseases
- Kangni has very few diseases.
- Excess irrigation increases pest attack.
- Use neem based solutions.
13. Crop Duration
- Kangni matures in 80 to 100 days.
14. Harvesting
- Harvest the crop when the panicles turn yellow brown
- Separate grains using a thresher
15. Yield per Acre
- Grain 6 to 7 quintals
- Fodder 8 to 16 quintals
16. Market Price and Profit
Kangni price ranges from 4000 to 7000 rupees per quintal.
Average income
7 quintals × 6000 rupees = 42000 rupees
Cost around 10000 to 12000 rupees
Net profit about 30000 rupees per acre
17. Storage
- Dry the grains properly
- Protect from moisture
- Store in jute bags
18. Government Schemes
- Millet Mission
- PM Crop Insurance Scheme
- Seed subsidy from Agriculture Department
19. Nutritional Value of Kangni
Per 100 grams
- Protein 12.3 grams
- Fiber 6.7 grams
- Calcium 31 milligrams
- Iron 2.8 milligrams
20. Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
1. In which season should Kangni be cultivated
It can be grown in both summer and rainy season.
2. Does it grow well with less water
Yes it grows very well with less water.
3. Is it good for diabetes
Yes it has a low glycemic index.
4. How much seed is required per acre
2.5 to 3 kilograms.
5. In how many days is the crop ready
80 to 100 days.
6. Does it suffer from diseases
Very rarely.
7. Is it useful as fodder
Yes it gives very good green fodder.
8. Is there a market for Kangni
Yes demand is continuously increasing.
9. Is government support available
Yes subsidy is available under millet schemes.
10. Can small farmers grow it
Yes it is a low cost crop.
Conclusion
Kakun or Kangni cultivation is a golden opportunity for farmers today. Low water requirement, low cost, and good market make it an excellent crop. If you want good income with low risk, you must adopt Kangni Ki Kheti. 🌾
Best wishes for a bright future for farmers. Use the right information, adopt improved farming, and become self reliant. 🌾
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