Sama seed, also known as Sama rice, holds a prominent place among millets. With several medical benefits, this grain is remarkably rich in protein and fibre. Sama is even good for liver health. Despite being available for up to Rs 700 per kg on online platforms like Flipkart and Amazon, it has no value in Indian villages. Farmers who cultivate Sama are unable to sell it at a viable price. They often sell it to traders at a minimal price of Rs 30 to Rs 40 per kg.

Under Central Government Focus

The central government is focusing a lot on coarse grains in the fourth agricultural road map. The agriculture department is also emphasising the cultivation of coarse grains in the district. Farmers here have previously been cultivating grains like Madua, Bajara, but Sama has not been grown in recent years. According to reports, the reason behind lack of cultivation of Sama is low demand in the market. Farmers believe that the availability of thin rice has reduced the demand of Sama.

However, scientists and doctors still advocate for the grain, emphasising it as highly nutritious. Besides being beneficial for liver health, Sama also enhances the immune system.

Traditional Technique

Sama rice is still processed as per the traditional technique. Farmers use mortar and musar (also known as musali) because as of now there are no Sama rice-making machines available. Consequently, farmers have to sell it at any price which eventually leads to losses. This traditional technique is time-consuming and requires a lot of hard work. According to famers, right now they are farming on the appeal of the Agriculture Department only. If the government provides rice-making machines, Sama farming could receive a significant boost.