Revitalising Kerala’s Plantation Sector
Nishand S.
Deputy Director
Directorate of Industries and Commerce
In recent years, Kerala’s plantation sector has received significant attention from the government, recognising its potential to contribute to the state’s economic growth. The establishment of the Directorate of Plantations in 2021 marks a crucial step in revitalising this sector. With a focus on improving productivity, promoting value addition, and exploring new markets, the Directorate aims to provide comprehensive support to the plantation industry and build a more sustainable, resilient ecosystem.
The Establishment and Role of the Directorate of Plantations
established as part of Kerala’s efforts to give the plantation sector a major boost. Located at Vikas Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, the Directorate functions under the Department of Industries. This unique body focuses on creating a supportive environment for plantation operations by improving productivity, ensuring better labour welfare, and enhancing the processing, harvesting, and marketing of plantation products. Additionally, it aims to help plantations integrate modern mechanisation techniques and provides a single window for statutory compliance and grievance redressal mechanisms. The Directorate oversees a broad range of activities in Kerala’s plantation industry. It collaborates with various stakeholders to ensure the sector’s growth and modernisation through targeted policies and initiatives that benefit both large-scale plantations and small farmers.
Key Initiatives for Sector Growth
To further elevate the plantation sector, the Directorate has rolled out several initiatives designed to address the industry’s key needs. These initiatives aim to integrate value addition, promote sustainable practices, and improve the livelihoods of those in the plantation industry.
1. Promoting Plantation Tourism The Directorate has launched seminars and workshops to promote plantation tourism as a viable and sustainable industry. These seminars aim to educate stakeholders on responsible tourism practices while highlighting Kerala’s scenic plantations as tourist destinations. By diversifying the plantation industry’s offerings, this initiative creates new economic opportunities for rural communities.
2. Carbon Trading Awareness In recognition of the vital role plantations play in carbon sequestration, the Directorate has initiated seminars on carbon trading. By educating plantation owners about the potential benefits of carbon credits, this initiative presents an opportunity to make plantations not only a source of revenue through traditional produce but also an asset in global climate action.
3. The Plantation Expo The Directorate organised the first-ever Plantation Expo in India in Thiruvananthapuram in 2021, followed by a second edition in Kochi in 2022. These events have proven to be significant in connecting stakeholders from the plantation sector, allowing them to showcase products, exchange ideas, and expand their market reach. The expos serve as a platform for networking, business development, and sharing knowledge that drives the sector forward
4. A New Digital Platform To streamline operations and provide accessible information, the Directorate has launched a dedicated website. This online portal offers essential resources, updates, and details about ongoing schemes, making it easier for plantation owners, investors, and other stakeholders to access relevant information and stay informed about the latest developments in the sector.
Policy and Research for Sustainable Growth
The Directorate of Plantations has also formulated a comprehensive Plantation Policy for Kerala, aimed at ensuring sustainable growth and resilience within the sector. The policy emphasises sustainable development, the introduction of value-added products, improved market access, support for small farmers, and enhanced labour welfare. It also underscores the importance of climate resilience and research and development to maintain the sector’s long-term viability. Additionally, the Directorate collaborated with IIM Kozhikode to conduct an in-depth study on the future of Kerala’s plantations, titled Diversification and Modernisation of the Plantation Sector in Kerala. The findings of this study, along with feedback from local farmers, have played a critical role in shaping the new policy, which is now under consideration for approval.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Growth and Sustainability
The efforts of the Directorate are setting the stage for a brighter future for Kerala’s plantation sector. By supporting innovation, enhancing market access, and fostering sustainability, the Directorate is playing a pivotal role in ensuring that the state’s plantations continue to thrive. Through its focused initiatives and commitment to sectoral growth, the Directorate aims to transform Kerala’s plantations into a globally competitive and environmentally sustainable industry.