In a move to enhance Kerala’s agricultural sector, the Ernakulam Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) of the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute suggested a statewide program to promote scientific sugarcane cultivation and village-level jaggery production units. This initiative is inspired by the success of the Alangad Jaggery Revival Model. The proposal, presented to Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, aims to ensure the availability of pure jaggery while creating additional income sources for farmers and rural entrepreneurs.
The policy document, based on the Alangad model’s success since 2022, emphasizes the potential of connecting sugarcane cultivation with micro-processing units. This linkage can establish a sustainable value chain that boosts employment opportunities, supports local economies, and encourages agricultural enterprises. The Alangad project has achieved an average sugarcane yield of 16 tonnes per acre, showcasing its viability and success.
According to the proposal, a processing unit capable of crushing one tonne of sugarcane daily can produce jaggery equivalent to approximately 10% of the cane’s weight. This makes small-scale units technically feasible and financially viable. The KVK estimates that cultivating sugarcane across about 20 acres, even on small fragmented plots, can sustain a one-tonne-per-day processing facility, ensuring year-round jaggery production.
To implement such units, an investment of approximately Rs 20 lakh would be necessary. The document suggests expanding the initiative by forming a specialized mission involving various stakeholders like government bodies, research institutions, farmer groups, financial entities, and entrepreneurs. This mission would concentrate on integrating sugarcane farming, jaggery production, and value-added products, while also exploring agri-tourism prospects.
Dr. Shinoj Subrahmanian, the Head of KVK, presented the policy document to the Chief Minister, positioning the Alangad model as a potential blueprint for a new rural development initiative throughout Kerala.
