Women Farmers Take the Lead in Cardamom Auctions

For the first time, a women-led cardamom auction company has begun operations at Spices Park in Puttady, Idukki. The Idukki Mahila Cardamom Producer Company Ltd conducted its inaugural auction. Achieving the highest price of the season at USD 45,75 per kg from an offered quantity of 29,815 kg. This marks a significant milestone in the cardamom trade, highlighting the role of women in agriculture.

Empowering Women in Cardamom Trading

K.A. Anil Kumar, Assistant Director at Spices Park in Puttady, stated that the women-centric company comprises 49 director board members who are cardamom farmers. Their goal is to secure better prices by selling high-quality cardamom capsules, which are more attractive to vendors in auctions. Traditionally, women's participation in the auction trade has been minimal. However, the establishment of this company is expected to increase women's involvement in the cardamom trading sector significantly.

Enhancing Competition and Quality in the Cardamom Market

With the addition of this new company, the total number of licensed cardamom auction companies has reached 16 under the Spices Board, conducting trades in both Puttady, Idukki, and Bodinayakanur, Tamil Nadu. This increased competition is expected to benefit the overall cardamom trade. Sujatha Bhagavathiraj, a director of the company from Kambam, Tamil Nadu, emphasized their commitment to selling quality cardamom without artificial colors and unauthorized pesticides. The company aims to support the trade by ensuring the quality and freshness of the cardamom brought to the auction platform.

Support and Future Prospects

The decision to form the company was made in 2021, but its launch was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Spices Board has provided full support to this venture, facilitating its successful start. With this new initiative, there is optimism for a brighter future for women in the cardamom trade, promoting better practices and quality in the market.