Byadagi and Lingsugur Chilli Cultivation of Raichur

Raichur district, particularly the Lingsugur area, is a major producer of chilli (Byadagi and local varieties) for both domestic spice markets and processing into paprika. The black cotton soil of the Krishna basin retains moisture and provides excellent growing conditions for chilli after the kharif paddy harvest. Lingsugur chilli is prized for its deep red colour and medium heat — it provides colour without excessive pungency, making it popular with curry powder manufacturers. The chilli harvest is done by handpicking ripe fruits over multiple rounds as the pods ripen successively. Sun-drying on village streets and fields turns the fresh green pods to deep red over 10–15 days. Raichur's chilli farmers sell through commission agents at the APMC market in Raichur town.