Prospects of Sesame Cultivation in North Eastern India

Abstract

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), usually considered to be the oldest indigenous oilseed crop, is an important oilseed crop of India, including northeastern region of the country. Because of its high oil content, aroma and flavor, the crop is also known as ‘the queen of oilseeds’. Sesame is amongst the culturally most important crops of India, which has also got huge nutritional and medicinal values. It contains antioxidants such as sesamin, sesamolin and sesamol. Due to the presence of these antioxidants and other health benefits, sesame seeds are also known as ‘the seeds of immortality’. Grown with proper management strategies, the crop has potential to improve income and livelihood of farmers in northeastern region of India. Present article discusses the status and opportunities of sesame production in North Eastern India.