Following the success of sugarcane farming, jaggery production, and the marketing of branded Alangadan Jaggery during 2023-24, the Ernakulam Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) has expanded its efforts by planting another 5-acre area near Alangad, Ernakulam this year. The initiative aims to rejuvenate sugarcane farming in the Periyar river basin and restore the prominence of Alangadan Jaggery. In collaboration with the Alangad Grama Panchayath, KVK previously established a Jaggery production unit on the campus of the Alangad Cooperative Bank. This year’s planting features the CO 86032 variety, a high-yielding and disease-resistant sugarcane strain released by ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore, specifically selected for Jaggery production.

The primary goal of this program is to produce chemical-free, high-quality Jaggery and to establish a branded marketing channel for Alangadan Sharkara. There is also a potential future aim to earn a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the product. The project has received support and guidance from ICAR-Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow, which is providing technological expertise for the Jaggery unit.

Jaggery, known as Sharkara in Malayalam, holds significant cultural importance and is recognized for its mineral-rich and antioxidant properties, offering numerous health benefits. It is a vital component of Kerala’s cuisine, used in various dishes and religious ceremonies, symbolizing auspiciousness and prosperity. The team at KVK is enthusiastic about the potential impact of this program and is committed to working with farmers in the Alangad area to revive this once-thriving industry. The dedication of Alangad farmers in producing high-quality, chemical-free Jaggery aims to not only enhance local agriculture but also to preserve and promote a significant cultural heritage.