International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development

This study examines the socio-economic and agronomic constraints faced by smallholder cardamom farmers in Idukki district, Kerala, which accounts for over 40,000 hectares of cardamom cultivation. Primary data were collected from 120 respondents through structured surveys and field interviews across major cardamom-growing taluks including Udumbanchola, Peermedu, and Devikulam. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative analysis of production economics with qualitative assessment of farmer perceptions. Key findings reveal that extreme price volatility (ranging from ₹1,549 to ₹3,116 per kg in 2024), climate-induced crop failures affecting 16,211 hectares during the 2024 summer drought, high input costs (₹2.5 lakh per acre annually), labor shortages with dependency on migrant workers, and water scarcity despite high rainfall (3,600 mm annually) constitute the primary constraints. Fungal disease outbreaks, inadequate extension services, and declining soil fertility further compound these challenges. The study finds that 70% of farmers operate on holdings under 3 acres with annual profits of ₹75,000-150,000, making them highly vulnerable to production shocks. Recommendations include establishing price stabilization mechanisms, developing climate-resilient varieties, improving irrigation infrastructure, strengthening farmer cooperatives, and enhancing extension service delivery to ensure sustainable cardamom cultivation in the region.