Virudhunagar Samba Chilli faces post-harvest losses, fragmented processing, and weak market linkages, reducing farmer income. Lack of proper storage, value addition, and organized systems limits its market potential despite GI recognition.
This integrated value chain is built to improve efficiency, reduce losses, and enhance farmer earnings.
This project aims to
01
Establish an integrated value chain for GI-tagged Virudhunagar Samba Chill
02
Improve processing and value addition infrastructure
03
Strengthen storage, handling, and market linkages
04
Enhance farmer income through better price realization
05
Preserve and protect the unique quality and identity of the GI-tagged product
Key Interventions
- Establishment of 5 FPO-level primary processing centres with drying yards and grading units
- Setting up a Common Processing Centre for production of chilli flakes, powder, and blended masalas
- Creation of cold storage facilities (250 MT) along with scientific warehousing systems (150 MT)
- Development of a common brand supported by a GI-based traceability system
- Strengthening market linkages through trade fairs, buyer connections, and digital marketing initiatives
Expected outcome
- Higher value-added products
- Lower post-harvest losses
- Higher farmer incomes
- More local jobs
- Stronger GI brand visibility
Testimonials
I am Rakkayi, a Samba Vathal chilli farmer from Virudhunagar. For a long time, we struggled with low prices, heavy post-harvest losses, and lack of proper storage facilities. Much of our hard work did not translate into fair income, and we depended heavily on middlemen.
After this project, our situation has changed completely. Through our FPO, we now have access to drying yards, grading units, cold storage, and a modern processing centre. Our post-harvest losses have reduced and with GI branding, we are receiving better and more stable prices, with greater control over how and where we sell our produce. Regular training and scientific support have also improved our farming practices.
This project has not only improved our income but also created jobs in the village and strengthened our confidence.
Ms. Rakkayi
Farmer