Spices Board explores indoor saffron farming in Kerala to meet growing demand
The Spices Board is examining the feasibility of indoor saffron cultivation in Kerala, a move that could open new income opportunities for farmers in the state. Officials confirmed that a proposal has been submitted to the Kerala Agriculture department to promote this innovative farming method.
During a recent visit, Spices Board chairperson Sangeetha Viswanathan discussed the prospects of indoor saffron farming with Agriculture Minister T. Sidhique. She described the venture as a lucrative agricultural opportunity for Kerala. “The State has immense potential to promote indoor saffron cultivation, and the board possesses extensive facilities to market it. Saffron continues to enjoy huge market demand,” she said, adding that the Minister expressed full support for the proposal.
Saffron, one of the world’s most expensive spices, is traditionally grown in cooler climates such as Jammu and Kashmir. Indoor cultivation using controlled environments could allow Kerala’s warmer climate to produce the spice year-round. Ms. Viswanathan noted that adopting such model practices would boost income for the state’s farming community.
The Spices Board also urged the Agriculture department to take immediate action against excessive pesticide use on cardamom plantations, particularly in Idukki. Large quantities of pesticides are reportedly being brought in from Tamil Nadu for use on these estates. “Cardamom sees higher demand in the export sector than in the domestic market. To secure more export orders, we should ensure that our cardamom is pesticide-free or organic. The Agriculture department needs to strictly monitor and verify the use of banned pesticides on these plantations,” Ms. Viswanathan said.
In addition, she called for expediting the issuance of Cardamom Registration (CR) certificates to all eligible farmers. These certificates are mandatory for farmers to access financial aid and benefits under various Union government assistance programmes implemented through the Spices Board. The state government is responsible for providing the certificates.
Addressing the impact of climate change on spice farming, Ms. Viswanathan requested state support for sustainable infrastructure. The board has sought assistance for mist irrigation systems, community irrigation projects, rainwater harvesting, promotion of bio-control agents, strengthening good agricultural practices, revising crop insurance schemes, installing automatic weather stations, and implementing climate-resilient farming initiatives.
Kerala’s spice sector, which includes cardamom, pepper, and now potentially saffron, is a key contributor to India’s agricultural exports. The Spices Board’s proposals, if implemented, could strengthen the state’s position in global spice markets while ensuring sustainability and better incomes for farmers.
