Land is being prepared for turmeric cultivation in the Periyar Tiger Reserve. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
After 15 years, agriculture has been resumed on abandoned tribal settlement lands in the Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) at Thekkady in Idukki. Turmeric is grown on tribal lands this time. The project, initiated by the forest department, aims to provide financial stability to the tribal community while reducing instances of human-wildlife conflict.
Cultivation is being resumed under five Ecological Development Committees (EDCs) of PTR, according to the official. “The Alleppey Finger Turmeric (AFT) variety is being used for this initiative. At Paliyakkudy, the crop has been planted on 1.5 acres on a trial basis. The total area proposed for cultivation is around 50 acres for various crops.” Future plans include rejuvenating the cultivation of black pepper in the settlements, as well as the cultivation of cinnamon, Malabar tamarind, cloves, nutmeg and ginger.
The official further stated that a wild variety of turmeric is also being grown experimentally in the tribal settlements.
Officials decided to prioritize turmeric because wild animals generally do not consume the crop. Organic farming practices will be followed.
Officials noted that forest management provides steady income for members of tribal settlements. “A stable source of income will help ensure active community participation in forest conservation activities.”
The soil has absorbed considerable moisture after the recent summer rain, so the current conditions are ideal for planting turmeric this month.
Last year, Munnar Forest Division carried out turmeric cultivation on abandoned lands, which was a great success.
Published – 15 May 2026 21:16 IST
