Cardamom is a popular spice grown in India, known for its unique aroma and flavor. It is mainly grown in the southern states in India, and the production of cardamom plays an important role in the economy of these regions. Below are the top-5 cardamom-producing states in India.
Cardamom Production in India
India’s total cardamom production is around 8,000 tonnes, making it the second-largest producer in the world, after Guatemala. The global production of cardamom is about 35,000 metric tonnes annually. India plays a key role in meeting the global demand for this valuable spice, mainly through production in states like Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
5 Cardamom Producing Indian States
India is one of the largest producers of Cardamom, thanks to its favorable climate, fertile soil and advanced farming techniques across several states. Here are the names of top-5 cardamom producing Indian states:
- Kerala
- Sikkim
- Nagaland
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Karnataka
India’s Largest Cardamom Producing State
Kerala is the largest producer of cardamom in India. With a production of 15,540 tonnes, Kerala contributes more than half (58.6%) of the total cardamom grown in India. The state’s ideal climate, with temperatures between 10-35ºC, makes it perfect for Cardamom cultivation. Kerala’s fertile land and favorable weather conditions allow farmers to grow a large amount of Cardamom. Additionally, the state plays a crucial role in India’s cardamom exports, which significantly boosts the country’s economy.
Sikkim, Second Largest Cardamom Producing State
Sikkim is known for producing large cardamom. The state’s loamy soil and ideal pH level make it perfect for cultivation. Sikkim uses modern farming techniques like nurseries and irrigation to increase production, contributing 19.8% of India’s total Cardamom output.
Nagaland
Nagaland ranks third in cardamom production by using innovative farming methods and government support. The state’s farmers adopt modern techniques like e-selling, allowing them to produce more cardamom efficiently. This makes Nagaland a significant contributor to India’s cardamom supply.
Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh has shifted from opium to cardamom farming, with favorable climate and soil conditions. The government supports farmers with policies and resources, helping the state grow cardamom. Arunachal Pradesh is expected to increase its production in the future.
Karnataka
Karnataka is known for producing various spices, including cardamom. The fertile Western Ghats region and monsoon climate make it ideal for farming cardamom. Karnataka contributes 3.5% to India’s total production, with farmers efficiently growing the spice in the state.