The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry recently approved the SPICED Scheme (Sustainability in spice sector through progressive, innovative, and collaborative interventions for export development), aimed at enhancing India’s spice sector. Led by the Spices Board, this initiative will support cardamom cultivation and promote export growth, focusing on both small and large cardamom.
Objectives of the SPICED Scheme
The scheme aims to:
Expand the area under cardamom cultivation.
Enhance productivity of both small and large cardamom.
Promote exports and trade in spices.
Build the capacity and skills of stakeholders through training and development.
The initiative will be implemented during the 15th Finance Commission period from 2023-24 to 2025-26, with a focus on improving productivity, market expansion, post-harvest quality, and research.
Understanding Cardamom Cultivation
Small cardamom is indigenous to the evergreen forests of the Western Ghats in South India, with major production hubs in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. The ideal conditions for its cultivation include:
Loamy soil with good drainage in thick shady areas.
Elevations of 600 to 1500 meters.
Acidic soils with regular rainfall.
Large cardamom is primarily grown in the Sub-Himalayan regions of Northeast India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It thrives in regions with average precipitation of 3000-3500 mm and temperatures between 6-30°C.
The Role of Spices Board India
Established in 1987 under the Spices Board Act, 1986, the Spices Board is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It plays a key role in promoting the export of 52 scheduled spices and overseeing the development of cardamom (both small and large varieties). The board is headquartered in Cochin, Kerala.
The SPICED Scheme is expected to elevate India’s position as a global leader in the spice trade, particularly in cardamom production and export.
Comments