The Vazhakkulam-based Pineapple Farmers Association has called for an end to misleading campaigns against pineapple farming as it endangered its very existence, the market for the fruit and the livelihood of thousands dependent on it.
Addressing a press conference here on Monday, Jojo Joseph, secretary of the association, said that pineapple farmers of Vazhakkulam followed the recommendations and suggestions of the Kerala Agricultural University in their farming practices. Besides, the farming methods are reformed timely through the Vazhakkulam Pineapple Research Station.
A Right to Information document on the fertilisers used, and farming and pest control methods was also distributed at the press meet to drive home the argument.
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Thousands of farmers in Vazhakkulam and nearby areas in Muvattupuzha taluk are dependent on pineapple farming. Pineapple farming is widespread across the State with farming carried out on 15,000-odd hectares. It accounted for a production of four lakh tonnes and turnover of over ₹800 crore.
Pineapple farming also generated thousands of jobs, including for migrant workers, as it is labour-centric. Group farming is under way in larger areas. Pineapple farming entailed an investment of about ₹5.50 lakh for farming in one hectare and almost 75% of it is raised through loans.