Is betel leaf (paan) farming profitable and what does the boroj structure cost?

Betel leaf (paan) can be profitable but it is labour and investment heavy. The vines are grown inside a special shaded enclosure called a boroj or baroj, made of bamboo and thatch or net, that gives filtered shade, wind protection and humidity, and building this structure is a major upfront cost that varies a lot by size and material, so get local quotes. Inside, vines climb on supports and need careful watering, training, and daily leaf picking once established. It is grown in West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, parts of the south and elsewhere, with famous types like Bangla, Mitha and Kapoori. Income comes from regular leaf sales almost year round, but the crop is sensitive to disease and weather damage to the boroj. Plan for the structure cost and steady labour, and confirm typical local costs and returns with growers and your KVK before starting.