In an effort to promote sustainable black pepper cultivation and improve plantation productivity, a new farmer-oriented initiative titled the Coorg Pepper Association (CPA) has been proposed in Kodagu. The initiative aims to focus on sustainable plantation management practices through training, field demonstrations, and knowledge-sharing programs for growers.
Black pepper, regarded as one of the world’s most valuable commodities for centuries, has witnessed a decline in production in India over recent years. Although the country once produced nearly 65,000 tonnes annually, current production has dropped to around 55,000 tonnes due to factors such as diseases, ageing vines, soil degradation, and unsustainable farming practices, despite lakhs of pepper vines being planted over the last 25 years.
Farmer-led organisations such as the Black Gold League (BGL), Indian Pepper League (IPL), Hasiru Organic, and the 7 Bean Team in Chikkamagaluru and Hassan districts have emerged as pioneering private plantation extension groups in Karnataka. Their work has highlighted the importance of understanding the physiology of black pepper and adopting sustainable cultivation methods.
The proposed CPA initiative seeks to bring similar practical learning opportunities to Kodagu, which is considered one of the ideal agro-climatic regions for sustainable pepper cultivation. Organisers believe black pepper has the potential to become a strong supplementary, and even primary, source of income for coffee-growing families in the region.
The initiative has been proposed after observing the increasing number of dying pepper vines across plantations and the poor revival rate of existing crops. Organisers noted that excessive dependence on chemical inputs has increased cultivation costs while negatively affecting soil health and long-term sustainability.
The training program will focus on areas such as soil health and organic matter management, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Integrated Disease Management (IDM), sustainable nutrient management, and scientific pepper cultivation practices.
The program will include classroom learning sessions, estate visits, and field demonstrations covering planting techniques, manuring practices, spraying schedules, vine maintenance, yield improvement, and harvesting methods for pepper, coffee, and arecanut.
The sessions are proposed to be mentored by Dr. Sunil D. Tamgale, M.Sc. (Agri), Ph.D., an internationally recognised expert in plantation and crop management, along with other experienced professionals from the field.
According to the organisers, the initiative will also help farmers understand methods to reduce production costs while improving long-term farm sustainability and profitability.
The tentative training fee has been fixed at Rs 10,000, including meals, and participation will be limited. The program is expected to commence during the upcoming monsoon season.
Interested participants have been requested to register their interest, following which registration forms and further details will be shared.
For details, contact Subbaiah on 9845760764.
