The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) of the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Ernakulam is spearheading an initiative to rejuvenate the once-thriving lemongrass cultivation and distillation industry in the district.
Innovative Harvesting Solutions
Addressing the challenge of labor scarcity that had hampered lemongrass farming, KVK has successfully tested a reaper machine designed for efficient crop harvesting. In collaboration with Kerala Agriculture University (KAU) and Kerala Agro Machinery Corporation Ltd (KAMCO), the KVK team evaluated KAMCO’s KR120H model reaper. The trials conducted at KAU’s Aromatic and Medicinal Plants Research Station in Odakkali demonstrated that the KR120H reaper could harvest an acre of lemongrass per hour, effectively mitigating labor-related constraints.
Showcasing Varieties
The next phase of KVK’s initiative involves showcasing the Sugandhi and Krishna varieties of lemongrass. These varieties, developed by KAU and the Lucknow-based Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), will be demonstrated in farmers’ fields to highlight their potential benefits and applications.
Future Collaborations
KVK plans to collaborate with the Bengaluru research center of CSIR-CIMAP to set up a lemongrass distillation unit as part of the Aroma Mission initiative. This partnership aims to further promote the production and utilization of lemongrass, enhancing its economic viability and contributing to the revival of the local industry.