Ernakulam KVK Revives Alangadan Sharkara Legacy, Establishes Jaggery Production Unit

Ernakulam KVK, under the auspices of ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), is taking proactive steps to revive sugarcane farming in the Periyar river basin and uphold the legacy of Alangadan Jaggery. Recently, the KVK established a jaggery production unit in Alangad, marking a significant milestone in this endeavor.

This initiative builds upon the ongoing demonstration of sugarcane farming in the area. The equipment for the production unit was procured with financial support from the Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute (ATARI), Bengaluru, while the construction of the facility was sponsored by the Alangad Co-operative Bank. The entire project is being executed in collaboration with the Alangad Grama Panchayath.

Sugarcane holds profound historical and cultural significance in Kerala, particularly in the Periyar river basin, where it has been cultivated traditionally for jaggery production. Jaggery, locally known as Sharkara in Malayalam, is not only esteemed for its cultural symbolism but also valued for its mineral-rich composition and antioxidant properties, offering various health benefits. It is an integral part of Kerala's cuisine, used in diverse dishes and religious rituals, symbolizing prosperity and auspiciousness.

Despite its historical importance, sugarcane farming in Kerala has encountered challenges in recent years, such as low profitability, escalating labor costs, and competition from cheaper alternatives. Consequently, the quality and quantity of jaggery, particularly the renowned Alangadan Sharkara, have witnessed a decline.

To address these issues, KVK opted to cultivate the CO 86032 variety, a high-yielding and disease-resistant sugarcane strain developed by ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore, specifically tailored for jaggery production. This strategic choice aims to enhance productivity and quality, thus revitalizing the prominence of Alangadan Jaggery and revitalizing the sugarcane farming tradition in the region.

HBL