Tobacco is one of the agricultural crops of India occupying the largest area among all agricultural crops grown in the country. Tobacco is a member of the Solanaceae or nightshade family. This family includes tomato, pepper, eggplant, Irish potato, and a number of other plants. Tobacco belongs to the genus Nicotiana, and almost all commercial tobacco is of the tabacum species.Tobacco plants are usually no more difficult to grow than many other garden plants. It was not only used as an intoxicant but also as a cure for all kinds of ills and paying homage to deities. Tobacco, as a single commodity is the fourth leading revenue earner for the Union Government contributing about 10 % of total Excise collection and nearly 3.5% of agri-exports from India.

   Tobacco is said to have been introduced into India in the beginning of 17th century.India produces various types of tobacco to meet the needs of discerning customers. Currently, Indian tobacco is exported to more than 80 countries spread over different continents. Top multinational cigarette companies like BAT, Philip Morris, RJ Reynolds, Rothmans, SEITA, Imperials, Reemtsma etc. and many government monopoly companies all-over the world.

Copyright © 2005  All rights Reserved. Best view IE 5+ 1024x768