A Study on Instability and Acreage Dynamics of Spices and Condiments in Malwa Plateau Agro-climatic Zone of Madhya Pradesh, India

Considering the rising value of Spices in the global market and its outstanding health benefits, the economic importance and utility of Spices and Condiments are undeniable. The present study was conducted on the spices and condiments in the Malwa plateau agro-climatic zone for a period of 22 years from 1998 to 2019. The distribution, trend and growth of area under spices and condiments was analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as Column Graphs, Trend Lines and Simple Growth Rate respectively. The instability in area under spices was studied using Cuddy-Della Valle Instability Index (CDVI) and Coefficient of Variation (CV). Area under most of the spices except black pepper followed a zig-zag pattern of trend from 1999 to 2009 after which they followed a positive increasing trend. The area under black pepper decreased by 11 percent and followed a decreasing trend. Coriander (41.03%) and Garlic (32.06%) were the most dominant spices in the region covering more than half of the total spices and condiments. They expanded at the linear rate (b value) of 2938.2 hectares and 3813.6 hectares per year on an average. Betel nut, Cardamom and Black pepper was found negligible in the region. Turmeric (9.16%), garlic (7.02%) and ginger (6.86%) had the highest simple growth rate. Coriander expanded at a slow rate of 4.23 per cent. Betel nut, Black pepper, Turmeric had a very high CDVI index values due to non-uniform cultivation pattern. Ginger (36.75%) and Coriander (32.24%) showed a high instability whereas area under garlic (25.87%) and chilies (22.72%) had a moderate growth in area. The area under total spices and Condiments had a medium instability of 23.86 % (CDVI) and increased at a moderate growth rate of 4.54 %. The study implies the fluctuating trends in spice cultivation, stressing the need for the stable and region specific agricultural policies, promoting high-growth spices like garlic and turmeric can boost farmer’s income. Addressing instability through improved infrastructure and support can ensure sustainable spice production in the region.