Kodagu District Anticipates Significant Boost in Pepper Production and Exports
In a promising development for the agricultural sector, pepper production in Karnataka's Kodagu district is projected to increase by a substantial 16% during the 2025-26 fiscal year. This announcement was made by Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasad, in response to a parliamentary query from Mysuru MP Yaduveer Wadiyar.
Minister's Detailed Response to Parliamentary Query
During a session in Parliament, MP Yaduveer Wadiyar raised several critical questions regarding the status of pepper cultivation in Kodagu. His inquiries specifically focused on:
- The current production trends and future projections
- The impact of international exports on local farmers
- Government support mechanisms for pepper growers
- The revision and enforcement of minimum import prices
Minister Jitin Prasad provided comprehensive answers, highlighting a positive trajectory for the region's pepper industry. He confirmed that pepper production has indeed shown an upward trend in Kodagu for the 2025-26 period compared to the previous agricultural year.
Export Growth and Farmer Support Initiatives
The minister revealed that India's pepper exports have experienced a healthy growth of 14.7%, indicating strong international demand for the spice. To further bolster the sector, the government is actively implementing the SPICED project, which stands as a crucial support system for pepper cultivators.
The SPICED project provides multifaceted assistance to farmers, including:
- Modern agricultural equipment to enhance efficiency
- Specialized training programs on best cultivation practices
- Improved market linkages to ensure better price realization
This holistic approach aims to increase productivity while ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce.
Protective Measures for Domestic Pepper Growers
In a move to safeguard the interests of local farmers against cheap imports, the government has enforced a minimum import price of Rs 500 per kilogram for black pepper. This regulatory measure is designed to prevent market flooding with low-cost foreign pepper, thereby protecting the livelihood of Indian cultivators and maintaining price stability in the domestic market.
The minister's statements underscore the government's commitment to strengthening the agricultural backbone of regions like Kodagu, which are renowned for their spice production. The projected increase in pepper output, coupled with rising exports and robust support systems, paints an optimistic picture for the future of pepper farming in this district.
