Scope of Sesame crop as a Cash Crop for farmers of Uttarakhand

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the oldest oilseed crops and is extensively cultivated across tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Africa. Called "til" in India, it is prized for its nutritional and medicinal qualities, along with its resistance to spoilage. Between 2020 and 2023, global production increased from 6.2 to 6.65 million tonnes, with India ranking among the leading producers. Due to its rich nutrient profile, sesame seeds provide various health benefits. The rising demand for organic sesame, valued at USD 7.4 billion globally in 2024, reflects growing health awareness. Uttarakhand’s suitable climate, soil, and water resources make it an ideal region for sesame farming, which could boost the local economy and promote sustainable agriculture through better awareness, quality seeds, and support for farmers.