The Betel is the leaf of vine. In India, it is known as "paan". Betel vine is a perennial, evergreen climber which grows in tropics and subtropics. Betel leaf is mostly consumed in Asia and elsewhere in the world by some Asian emigrants. Today betel is grown for local consumption and exports. Major betel leaves growing countries are Sri Lanka, India, Thailand and Bangladesh. Tropical climate, high rainfall and a shady place are best for its vigorous growth. Betel is a sun loving plant but produces better quality leaves in the wet zone and intermediate zones rather than in the dry zone. Appropriate shade levels and irrigation are essential for successful cultivation of the crop. Hot dry winds are harmful and retard the growth of the vine.

HARVESTING AND POST HARVEST PRACTICES: Generally betel vine is ready for harvest after 2-3 months of planting and thereafter for every 15-25 days. However, harvesting is started when the betel vine is grown up to 1.2 1.8 mt. in length. Leaves are harvested from the lower portion of the stem. 6 Initially matured leaves are removed in lower parts of the main stem 2-3 times. After that betel leaves are harvested both from main stem and lateral stems. For export market betel is harvested from three weeks intervals and for local market in two weeks intervals. Harvested leaves to be washed cleaned and graded according to their size and quality. Then they are packed after cutting a portion of the petiole and rejecting the damaged leaves. For cleaning and washing clean & microbial free water is to be used. Handling workers to sanitize their hands follow proper personnel hygiene.

INDIA'S EXPORT : The country has exported 3440 MT of Betel Leaves to the world for the worth of USD 6.21 Millions in 2022-23.