Claims full ground say chilli, turmeric plus oda spices get health benefits and even di ability to "boost our immune system".

Sochingla Ramsan, a 65-year-old farmer from Sirarakhong village, has been cultivating the prized Sirarakhong Chilli for more than 30 years. Yet, the past six or seven years have been especially tough.

The constant exposure to red chilli pepper dust poses huge risks, especially for children and the elderly, who are prone to developing respiratory diseases, including asthma, and tuberculosis.