As high-yielding varieties have conquered the cardamom sector resulting in excessive use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers, farmers of Edamalakkudy tribal grama panchayat in the Munnar Forest Division have adhered to the indigenous variety more resistant to pest attacks and climate change.
Edamalakkudy Agriculture Officer Murugan K. says around 200 ha is under indigenous cardamom cultivation there. The cultivation is scattered and spread over a wide area of the forest. Farmers usually work in the farm only once a year and the yield is comparatively less.
He says a survey is being held to find the total area under cardamom, pepper, and coffee at Edamalakkudy. The organic way of cultivation is generally followed there, he says adding that it will also come under scrutiny in the survey.
