PERSPECTIVES AND MARKETING PROBLEMS OF ORGANIC GREEN CARDAMOM IN IDUKKI DISTRICT, KERALA

Organic green cardamom cultivation has emerged as a rapidly expanding agricultural practice in the high
altitude zones of Kerala, driven by rising domestic and international demand for sustainably produced, 
chemical-free spices. Idukki District, which contributes the largest share of India’s cardamom output, holds 
significant promise for scaling organic production. However, despite this potential, farmers encounter 
persistent structural and marketing challenges when shifting to and maintaining certified organic systems. This 
empirical study, conducted in 2025, investigates the production environment, certification processes, marketing 
mechanisms, and value-chain constraints shaping the experiences of organic cardamom growers in Idukki. 
The study adopts a mixed-method research design, combining quantitative data from field surveys with 150 
certified and transitioning organic farmers alongside qualitative insights from key informant interviews and 
field observations. The results reveal multiple barriers, including high certification fees, recurring audit and 
compliance requirements, limited access to collective marketing institutions, insufficient post-harvest 
infrastructure, and strong dependence on intermediaries. Price volatility, inconsistent auction performance, and 
inadequate access to real-time market intelligence further diminish farmers’ ability to secure premium prices. 
While organic cardamom enjoys strong market demand and export potential, farmers capture only a modest 
portion of the final consumer price due to fragmented value chains and weak direct linkages with exporters and 
organized buyers. The study proposes a comprehensive roadmap featuring FPO-led group certification, 
decentralized drying and curing units, digital spice marketplace integration, improved branding and 
traceability systems, and targeted financial and institutional interventions. These measures can enhance income 
stability, strengthen market competitiveness, and ensure the long-term sustainability of organic cardamom 
cultivation in Idukki. 
Keywords: Organic Green Cardamom, Marketing Constraints, Value Chain Analysis, Certification Challenges, 
Idukki District.