The Department of Agriculture, Little Andaman zone, in coordination with other zones across the Union Territory, conducted a large-scale plantation programme under the ‘Spice Pravah’ initiative on July 31, 2025, aimed at expanding the area under spice cultivation. The programme saw active participation from farmers, Panchayati Raj Institutions, and field functionaries.
The event was inaugurated at Ramakrishnapur Gram Panchayat by Parmanathan, Pramukh of the Panchayat Samiti, Little Andaman, in the presence of Siuli Mondal, Pradhan of Ramakrishnapur, and Rudramoorty, Pradhan of Hutbay, along with other members of the Panchayat Samiti. During the launch, Parmanathan commended the efforts of the Department of Agriculture in promoting spice cultivation and highlighted the department’s consistent support in providing training and resources to the farming community.
Agriculture Officer Mary Magdalene, addressing the gathering, emphasized the objectives of the ‘Spice Pravah’ programme, noting its importance in advancing sustainable agricultural practices across the Island. She stressed the role of spice cultivation in boosting productivity and improving the livelihood of local farmers.
Providing technical inputs, Agriculture Assistant Dinesh Chandra Das discussed the recommended package of practices for spice cultivation, shared details on popular black pepper varieties suitable for the region, and underlined the export potential of spices produced in Little Andaman.
As part of the initiative, 2,200 rooted black pepper cuttings were planted over 1 hectare of land owned by four identified beneficiary farmers — Ashok Bachar, Shyamlal Mondal, Kamlesh Mondal, and Noni Gopal Baroi. Additionally, 200 saplings were distributed among other farmers to encourage widespread adoption of spice farming in the region.
The programme reflects the department’s strategic push to enhance spice production in the Islands and foster economic development through sustainable agriculture. By promoting black pepper cultivation, the initiative aims to increase the income of local farmers while strengthening the region’s potential as a contributor to India’s spice economy.
