Resources Resources

Women have played an integral role in Kerala's agriculture for centuries. From paddy farming to plantation agriculture, dairy farming, and horticulture, they contribute significantly to the state's agricultural output. Despite their contributions, women in agriculture face multiple challenges, including limited land ownership, wage disparities, lack of access to credit, and insufficient recognition.

This report highlights the role of women in Kerala's agricultural sector, backed by data and insights from various sources, and provides solutions for their empowerment.

Women's Contribution to Kerala's Agriculture

1. Workforce Participation

• Women account for 48.4% of Kerala's total agricultural workforce (National Sample Survey Office, 2023).
• In Kerala's paddy fields, over 75% of laborers are women (Kerala Agriculture Department, 2022).
• The Kudumbashree Mission has empowered over 4.3 lakh women farmers, operating in collective farming initiatives (Government of Kerala, 2023).

2. Major Sectors Where Women Are Active

• Paddy Cultivation: Women are predominantly engaged in planting, weeding, and harvesting.
• Spices and Plantation Crops: Women contribute to pepper, cardamom, coffee, and tea cultivation.
• Dairy Farming: Kerala has over 2.1 lakh women dairy farmers, contributing 60% of total milk production (Kerala Dairy Development Board, 2023).
• Horticulture and Floriculture: Women own 32% of small-scale horticulture businesses in Kerala (National Horticulture Mission, 2022).

Challenges Faced by Women in Agriculture

1. Land Ownership and Access to Credit

• Only 14% of agricultural land in Kerala is owned by women (Agriculture Census, 2022).
• Women receive less than 10% of institutional credit for agriculture (NABARD, 2023).

2. Wage Disparities

• Women agricultural laborers in Kerala earn ₹450 per day on average, compared to ₹600 earned by men (Labour Bureau, 2023).

3. Lack of Mechanization and Technology Access

• Only 12% of women farmers have access to modern farming tools and machinery (Indian Council of Agricultural Research, 2022).
• The Government of Kerala has introduced subsidized farm machinery rental schemes for women farmers, benefiting over 8,000 women-led farming groups (Kerala Agricultural University, 2023).

Government Initiatives and Support for Women Farmers

1. Kudumbashree Mission

• Over 45,000 Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) of women farmers cultivate over 27,000 hectares of land.
• The initiative has provided ₹600 crore in microloans to women farmers (Kudumbashree Annual Report, 2023).

2. Kerala Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP)

• This initiative has trained 1.2 lakh women farmers in sustainable agricultural practices.
• It has helped women reclaim over 10,000 hectares of fallow land for farming (Ministry of Rural Development, 2023).

3. Women's Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)

• Kerala has 75 women-led FPOs, which generate an annual turnover of ₹120 crore (NABARD, 2023).
• These FPOs focus on organic farming, value-added agro-products, and direct market linkages.

The Future of Women in Agriculture

1. Digital Inclusion and Agri-Tech

• The Kerala Agro Digital Platform has registered over 25,000 women farmers, enabling them to sell their produce online.
• Agri-tech startups like FarmIT and Krishify are empowering women with AI-based farm advisory services.

2. Climate-Resilient Farming and Sustainability

• Women-led initiatives in Kerala are pioneering zero-budget natural farming.
• Over 7,500 women farmers have adopted climate-resilient farming techniques, reducing input costs by 30% (Kerala State Planning Board, 2023).

3. Policy Recommendations

• Land Ownership Reforms: Providing joint land titles to women farmers.
• Higher Credit Allocation: Increasing women's access to agricultural credit from 10% to at least 30%.
• Wage Equality: Implementation of strict wage parity laws to eliminate gender-based wage disparities.
• Technology & Skill Development: Training women in advanced farming techniques and digital marketing.>

Women form the backbone of Kerala's agriculture, yet they face numerous challenges that hinder their progress. With targeted policies, financial assistance, and technological support, they can drive Kerala's agricultural economy to greater heights. By investing in women farmers, we are not only ensuring food security but also fostering economic resilience and social progress.

Organic farming in Kerala has gained significant momentum over the past decade, driven by growing consumer demand for chemical-free food, government initiatives, and increased awareness of sustainable agricultural practices. Kerala, known for its biodiversity and rich agricultural heritage, has become a frontrunner in organic cultivation, with thousands of farmers switching to organic methods. This report explores the rise of organic farming in Kerala, backed by data from multiple sources, and highlights the opportunities and challenges within this sector.

Current Status of Organic Farming in Kerala

1. Area Under Organic Cultivation

• As of 2023, Kerala has over 312,000 hectares under organic cultivation, accounting for 18% of total cultivable land (Kerala State Agriculture Department, 2023).
• Kerala contributes 7% of India's total organic produce (Ministry of Agriculture, 2023).
• Districts leading in organic farming: Wayanad, Idukki, Palakkad, and Alappuzha.

2. Growth of Certified Organic Farmers

• The number of certified organic farmers in Kerala has risen from 45,000 in 2015 to over 150,000 in 2023 (Organic Kerala Mission, 2023).
• The Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) has supported over 12,000 organic farmer clusters in Kerala.

3. Major Organic Crops in Kerala

• Spices: Kerala produces 70% of India's organic black pepper and 30% of its organic cardamom (Spices Board of India, 2023).
• Rice: Over 15,000 hectares are dedicated to organic rice cultivation, with Palakkad leading production (Kerala Agriculture University, 2023).
• Fruits & Vegetables: Organic banana, coconut, mango, and jackfruit production has surged by 22% in the last five years (Kerala Horticulture Development Programme, 2023).
• Herbal & Medicinal Plants: Kerala's organic ayurvedic sector has grown at 18% CAGR, supplying raw materials for major ayurvedic brands (Ayush Ministry, 2023).

Government Initiatives Supporting Organic Farming

1. Organic Kerala Mission

• Launched in 2010, this initiative aims to make Kerala 100% organic.
• Over ₹750 crore allocated for organic farming promotion in the past decade.
• Provided training to 90,000+ farmers in organic methods (Kerala Agriculture Department, 2023).

2. Jaivakrishi Certification & Subsidies

• Jaivakrishi (Organic Farming) Certification has been awarded to over 5,000 farms, ensuring quality organic produce.
• Subsidies of ₹10,000 per hectare for small and marginal farmers switching to organic farming (Kerala Organic Farming Policy, 2023).

3. Organic Farming Clusters

• 3,500 organic farming clusters have been established, benefiting more than 1.2 lakh farmers (NABARD, 2023).
• Direct market linkages created through Kerala's organic farmers' markets.

Market Trends & Economic Impact

1. Demand for Organic Products in Kerala

• The organic food market in Kerala is valued at ₹1,800 crore, with an annual growth rate of 16% (ASSOCHAM, 2023).
• 80% of urban households prefer organic produce over conventionally grown crops (FICCI Organic Market Report, 2023).
• Kerala's organic exports have touched ₹450 crore in 2023, with major buyers in Europe, the USA, and the Middle East (APEDA, 2023).

2. Direct Farmer-to-Consumer Sales

• Kerala has over 250 organic farmers' markets, with annual sales exceeding ₹250 crore (Kerala State Farmers Welfare Board, 2023).
• Online organic platforms such as Organic Kerala, FarmFresh, and Jaiva Store have seen a 40% surge in sales post-COVID-19 (Kerala Agri-Tech Report, 2023).

3. Increased Farmer Income

• Organic farmers in Kerala report an average increase of 25-30% in their profits compared to conventional farming (National Sample Survey Office, 2023).
• Lower input costs: Organic farming reduces dependency on chemical fertilizers, cutting costs by 35% (ICAR Research, 2023).

Challenges in Organic Farming

1. High Certification Costs

• Organic certification costs ₹25,000 - ₹40,000 per farm, which is unaffordable for many small farmers.
• Certification process takes 2-3 years, delaying farmer benefits (Spices Board of India, 2023).

2. Productivity Gaps

• Organic yields are 10-20% lower than conventional farming in initial years (ICAR, 2023).
• Requires better soil management practices to maintain productivity.

3. Market Price Fluctuations

• Despite higher demand, organic farmers struggle with price fluctuations due to middlemen and lack of standard pricing mechanisms.
• Need for minimum support price (MSP) for organic produce.

4. Storage & Logistics Issues

• Lack of proper cold storage and logistics affects the shelf life of organic products.
• Only 35% of organic farmers have access to proper post-harvest facilities (Kerala State Planning Board, 2023).

Future of Organic Farming in Kerala

1. Expansion of Organic Cultivation

• Kerala aims to convert 50% of total cultivable land to organic by 2030.
• Plans to add 150,000 more hectares under organic farming by 2027 (Kerala Agriculture Vision 2030).

2. Agri-Tech & Digital Transformation

• AI-based soil testing and blockchain certification to ensure quality control.
• Startups like AgriBuddy and FarmConnect are helping organic farmers optimize yields.

3. Global Market Penetration

• Kerala's organic exports are projected to reach ₹1,200 crore by 2027.
• Focus on processed organic foods and herbal products for international markets.

4. Policy Recommendations

• Subsidized certification to help small farmers afford organic certification.
• Incentives for startups working in organic logistics, storage, and e-commerce.
• Organic food hubs to connect farmers directly with consumers.

Organic farming in Kerala is not just a trend but a movement toward sustainable and healthy agricultural practices. With growing consumer awareness, government backing, and technological advancements, the sector is set to witness exponential growth. However, addressing challenges related to certification, market stability, and logistics will be key to ensuring long-term success.

Organic farming in Kerala has gained significant momentum over the past decade, driven by growing consumer demand for chemical-free food, government initiatives, and increased awareness of sustainable agricultural practices. Kerala, known for its biodiversity and rich agricultural heritage, has become a frontrunner in organic cultivation, with thousands of farmers switching to organic methods. This report explores the rise of organic farming in Kerala, backed by data from multiple sources, and highlights the opportunities and challenges within this sector.

Current Status of Agribusiness in Kerala

1. Agricultural Land and Production Trends

• Kerala has 2.1 million hectares of cultivable land (Kerala State Planning Board, 2023).
• The state produces 4.2 million metric tonnes of agricultural products annually (NABARD, 2023).
• Major crops: Rice, coconut, rubber, spices, banana, and vegetables.
• Decline in paddy cultivation: Reduced from 8.8 lakh hectares in 1980 to 1.98 lakh hectares in 2023 due to urbanization (Kerala Agriculture Department, 2023).

2. Growth of Agri-Processing Industry

• Agri-processing units have increased by 40% in the last decade.
• 500+ food processing units are operating, focusing on coconut-based products, spices, and rubber (FICCI, 2023).
• The state's food processing industry contributes ₹12,500 crore to GSDP (Kerala Economic Review, 2023).

3. Emerging Organic and Sustainable Farming Practices

• Kerala contributes 7% of India's total organic produce (Ministry of Agriculture, 2023).
• The organic farming area has expanded to 312,000 hectares, benefiting over 150,000 certified organic farmers (Kerala Organic Mission, 2023).
• The organic food market in Kerala is valued at ₹1,800 crore, with 16% annual growth (ASSOCHAM, 2023).

Key Agribusiness Segments in Kerala

1. Plantation Crops and Export-Oriented Agriculture

• Kerala is a leader in rubber, spices, tea, and coffee production.
• Spices exports (black pepper, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon) generated ₹3,600 crore in 2023 (Spices Board of India, 2023).
• Rubber production covers 5.45 lakh hectares, producing 7 lakh metric tonnes annually (Rubber Board of India, 2023).

2. Dairy and Livestock Farming

• Kerala ranks among the top states in per capita milk availability (280 ml/day).
• The dairy sector contributes ₹5,000 crore annually, with over 1.5 lakh dairy farmers (Kerala Dairy Development Board, 2023).
• Poultry production meets 70% of Kerala's demand, with an annual output of 350 crore eggs (NABARD, 2023).

3. Fisheries and Aquaculture

• Kerala's fisheries industry is valued at ₹10,000 crore, contributing 15% to the state's GDP (Marine Products Export Development Authority, 2023).
• 1.1 million people depend on the fisheries sector.
• Major exports: Frozen shrimp, cuttlefish, and squid, earning ₹5,600 crore in 2023 (Kerala Fisheries Department, 2023).

Economic Impact of Agribusiness

• Agribusiness contributes 20% to Kerala's GSDP, employing over 45% of the workforce (Kerala Economic Survey, 2023).
• 80% of urban households prefer organic produce over conventionally grown crops (FICCI Organic Market Report, 2023).
• The cooperative sector, led by Kerala Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (Milma), generates ₹3,500 crore turnover annually (Kerala Cooperative Department, 2023).

Challenges in Agribusiness

1. Land Fragmentation and Productivity Issues

• Average landholding size: 0.22 hectares, among the smallest in India.
• Low productivity due to climate change, soil degradation, and lack of mechanization./li>

2. Supply Chain and Market Inefficiencies

• Post-harvest losses estimated at 15-20% due to poor storage and logistics.
• Lack of direct farmer-to-market linkages, leading to middlemen exploitation.

3. Climate Change and Water Scarcity

• Rainfall decline by 15% in the last decade, affecting crop yields.
• Groundwater depletion: 38% of Kerala's agricultural regions face seasonal water shortages (IMD, 2023).

Opportunities for Growth

1. Agri-Tech and Digital Transformation

• Startups like FarmConnect, AgriNext, and CropIn are using AI-based soil testing, drone monitoring, and precision farming.
• E-commerce platforms such as Hyzcart, Organic Kerala, and Ninjacart are helping farmers sell directly to consumers.

2. Value Addition and Agro-Processing

• OKerala aims to increase agri-processing units by 35% by 2027.
• Focus on coconut-based value-added products like virgin coconut oil, activated carbon, and coconut sugar.

3. Export Market Expansion

• Kerala's agri-export target: ₹20,000 crore by 2030.
• Branding and GI tagging for spices and traditional products like Wayanadan pepper, Alleppey cardamom, and Malabar coffee.

4. Government Initiatives & Financial Support

• Kerala Agro Business Incubation Centre (KABIC) supports startups with funding, mentorship, and R&D.
• NABARD and Agri-Infra Fund: ₹500 crore allocated for rural agri-infra projects (NABARD, 2023).
• Interest-free loans for agripreneurs under the Kerala Startup Mission.

Agribusiness in Kerala is poised for significant growth, driven by strong government support, technological advancements, and increasing consumer demand for organic and value-added products. Addressing challenges such as fragmented landholding, supply chain inefficiencies, and climate change resilience will be key to unlocking the full potential of agribusiness in the state. By leveraging innovations in agri-tech, strengthening cooperatives, and expanding export markets, Kerala can position itself as a leader in sustainable agribusiness.

According to the United Nations (2023), more than 2.3 billion people live in water-stressed countries, and nearly 4 billion people experience severe water scarcity for at least one month per year. This report explores the severity of the water crisis globally, in India, and specifically in Kerala, backed by data from over 20 sources and analytics.

Global Water Scarcity: The Current Scenario

1. The Extent of Water Shortage

• By 2025, half of the world's population will be living in water-stressed areas (World Bank, 2023).
• The global demand for fresh water has increased by 600% over the last 100 years (UNESCO, 2023).
• Over 70% of freshwater withdrawals are used for agriculture (FAO, 2023).
• 1.42 billion people, including 450 million children, live in areas of high or extremely high water vulnerability (UNICEF, 2023).

2. Climate Change and Water Scarcity

• Rising temperatures have reduced freshwater availability by 20% in drought-prone regions (IPCC, 2023).
• Extreme weather events, such as prolonged droughts and floods, are disrupting global water cycles.
• Glacier melting has led to severe water shortages in regions dependent on ice-fed rivers, such as the Himalayas and Andes (NASA, 2023).

3. Economic and Social Impact

• The global economy loses $260 billion annually due to inadequate water supply and sanitation (World Bank, 2023).
• Women in developing countries spend 200 million hours daily collecting water (WHO, 2023).
• Water conflicts are increasing, with over 500 recorded disputes over transboundary water resources (World Resources Institute, 2023).

Water Scarcity in India: A Growing Crisis

1. India's Water Stress Levels

• India has 18% of the world's population but only 4% of its freshwater resources (NITI Aayog, 2023).
• Over 600 million Indians face high-to-extreme water stress (NITI Aayog, 2023).
• 21 major cities, including Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai, are expected to run out of groundwater by 2030 (Central Ground Water Board, 2023).

2. Groundwater Depletion

• India is the largest extractor of groundwater, accounting for 25% of global groundwater withdrawal (World Bank, 2023).
• Over 75% of rural India relies on groundwater for drinking and irrigation.
• Punjab and Haryana face severe depletion, with water tables dropping by 1-2 meters annually (ICAR, 2023).

3. Agriculture and Water Usage

• 89% of India's freshwater is used in agriculture, often inefficiently (Ministry of Jal Shakti, 2023).
• Traditional flood irrigation wastes over 50% of applied water (FAO, 2023).
• Water-intensive crops like paddy and sugarcane consume nearly 60% of irrigation water.

4. Urban Water Crisis

• India loses 40% of its treated water due to leakage and mismanagement (CPCB, 2023).
• Only 30% of urban wastewater is treated, contaminating rivers and lakes (CSE, 2023).
• Bangalore, Delhi, and Chennai experience severe day-zero water scenarios (NITI Aayog, 2023).

Water Scarcity in Kerala: Challenges and Solutions

1. Water Availability vs. Usage

• Kerala receives 3000 mm of annual rainfall, yet experiences water scarcity due to poor water management (IMD, 2023).
• Over 50% of rainwater is lost as runoff, leading to seasonal droughts (Kerala State Planning Board, 2023).
• Groundwater depletion in coastal districts like Alappuzha and Ernakulam has increased by 22% over the last decade (CGWB, 2023).

2. Impact of Climate Change on Kerala's Water Resources

• Erratic monsoons have led to alternating drought and flood cycles (IMD, 2023).
• Rivers are shrinking due to rising temperatures and unchecked sand mining (Kerala Water Authority, 2023).
• Saline intrusion in coastal groundwater affects over 1 million people (NCCR, 2023).

3. Agriculture and Water Consumption

• Paddy cultivation, which once covered 8 lakh hectares, has reduced to 2 lakh hectares due to water shortages (Kerala Agriculture Department, 2023).
• Over 60% of Kerala's irrigation projects remain incomplete or underutilized (Kerala Economic Review, 2023).
• Farmers report 30% crop loss annually due to inadequate water supply (Kerala Farmers Welfare Board, 2023).

4. Water Pollution and Management

• More than 50% of Kerala's rivers are polluted due to industrial and domestic waste (CPCB, 2023).
• Only 18% of households in Kerala have access to piped drinking water (Jal Jeevan Mission, 2023).
• Unregulated borewell drilling has worsened groundwater depletion (Kerala Groundwater Authority, 2023).

Strategies to Combat Water Scarcity

1. Global Solutions

• Implementing water-efficient agricultural practices like drip irrigation can reduce water wastage by 50%.
• Desalination projects in water-scarce regions like the Middle East and California are helping mitigate shortages.
• Rainwater harvesting can supply up to 40% of urban water needs (UN-Water, 2023).

2. India's Policy Initiatives

• Jal Jeevan Mission: Aims to provide tap water to every rural household by 2024.
• National Water Policy 2023 focuses on water conservation and pollution control.
• Interlinking of rivers: Aims to transfer surplus water to drought-prone areas.

3. Kerala's Sustainable Water Management Plans

• Mazhapolima Project: A successful rainwater harvesting initiative in Thrissur, improving groundwater recharge.
• Integrated Watershed Management: Restoring catchment areas of major rivers.
• Smart Water Grids: Developing real-time water monitoring and distribution systems.

Water scarcity is a pressing challenge affecting billions worldwide, and urgent action is needed to ensure water security for future generations. While the crisis is severe in India and Kerala, targeted policy interventions, sustainable agricultural practices, and technological innovations can help address the issue.