Main Article Content

Abstract

Large cardamom (Amomum subulatum) is an important, high-value cash crop and main livelihood support for people in Sikkim. Till 2003–2004, India was considered the largest producer of large cardamom in the world, and the state of Sikkim alone contributed up to 88% of India's total production.  However, since 2004, over 60% of the cardamom plantations in the Sikkim state have experienced minimal productivity, leading to a significant decrease in both area and productivity. Due to factors such as climate change, pests and diseases, market prices, and traditional farming practices in India, Nepal now holds the title of being the world's leading producer. Under such an arena, the present study was conducted with the objective to identify the constraints faced by the farmers in large cardamom cultivation. This study was conducted in Sikkim state, which was selected purposively. A total of 50 respondents were selected randomly, and data was collected with a structured interview schedule. The study revealed that the growers ranked various types of constraints with mean scores of 3.38, 3.48, 3.46, 4.00, 3.70, 3.84, 3.32, 3.54, 4.54, 4.00, and 3.38. Overall, the growers faced a mean score of 3.98 for all constraints. The adoption of micropropagation was one of the major areas where the growers were facing problems. The study highlights the need for awareness and technical guidance for large cardamom growers to improve quality, productivity, and livelihood. Implementing feasible, environmentally, economically, and socially acceptable technologies is crucial.

Keywords

Large Cardamom Livelihood Micro propagation Productivity

Article Details

How to Cite
Bhutia, T. T., Roy, D., Peddi, N. H. V., & Adhikary, A. (2024). Perceived constraints faced by the large cardamom growers of East Sikkim district: A case study . Environment Conservation Journal, 25(4), 1257–1264. https://doi.org/10.36953/ECJ.28572886

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