Kochi: Special attention given to pepper and cardamom may have positive impact on these plantation crops. Replanting of the existing low yielding plantations with high yielding varieties could lead to increased productivity per hectare. However, its success will depend on how the replanting and new planting schemes are drawn up and implemented. Budget 2008-09
The average pepper yield per hectare in India is estimated at less than 400 kg as against over 2,000 kg in Vietnam. Similarly, the average productivity per hectare of cardamom is also at the lowest levels at below 300 kg. The low yield has resulted in high cost of production making these commodities uncompetitive in the world market.
Given this scenario, the announcement made in the Budget 2007-08 is a positive step in the right direction, provided effective mechanism is put in place for the implementation of schemes aimed at increasing the productivity.
The waiver of loans for small and marginal farmers would benefit a good number of cardamom and pepper growers spread over Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. A substantial number of cardamom growers fall under medium and major category who could be benefited by going for a one-time settlement with the banks.
The allocation of Rs 1,000 crore for horticulture crops, including coconut and cashew is also a positive step. The allocation for each crop and schemes for which it has been earmarked is yet to be known.
The average pepper yield per hectare in India is estimated at less than 400 kg as against over 2,000 kg in Vietnam. Similarly, the average productivity per hectare of cardamom is also at the lowest levels at below 300 kg. The low yield has resulted in high cost of production making these commodities uncompetitive in the world market.
Given this scenario, the announcement made in the Budget 2007-08 is a positive step in the right direction, provided effective mechanism is put in place for the implementation of schemes aimed at increasing the productivity.
The waiver of loans for small and marginal farmers would benefit a good number of cardamom and pepper growers spread over Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. A substantial number of cardamom growers fall under medium and major category who could be benefited by going for a one-time settlement with the banks.
The allocation of Rs 1,000 crore for horticulture crops, including coconut and cashew is also a positive step. The allocation for each crop and schemes for which it has been earmarked is yet to be known.
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