Volume 3 Number 1 2025
Economic Potential and Production Constraints of Large Cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) Cultivation in Lower Subansiri District, Arunachal Pradesh
Kanchan Devi 1*
Applied Agriculture Sciences 3 (1) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/agriculture.3110363
Submitted: 19 August 2025 Revised: 07 October 2025 Accepted: 13 October 2025 Published: 15 October 2025
Abstract
Background: Large cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) has become an increasingly profitable alternative to traditional paddy cultivation in the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, significantly influencing rural livelihoods. Farmers are shifting from low-yield subsistence farming toward high-value spice cultivation, driven by better market prospects and income potential.
Methods: This study examined the economic viability, profitability, and challenges of large cardamom farming through a field survey of 100 purposively selected farmers across Yazali, Yachuli, and Param Putu circles. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and multiple linear regression modeling to identify key factors affecting profitability.
Results: Over 80% of respondents reported replacing paddy cultivation with cardamom, resulting in notable improvements in household income, living standards, and employment generation. Among the three circles, Param Putu exhibited the highest productivity and profitability levels, while Yazali and Yachuli performed moderately. Regression analysis revealed that yield per bigha, market access, price received, and credit availability significantly enhanced profitability, whereas higher input and labour costs had adverse effects.
Conclusion: Large cardamom cultivation has proven to be economically rewarding and socially transformative in Lower Subansiri. However, recurring challenges such as pest infestations, post-harvest losses, limited technical knowledge, financial constraints, and poor infrastructure impede sustained growth. The study emphasizes the need for region-specific policy support, capacity-building programs, and improved market linkages to strengthen the long-term sustainability of cardamom farming and ensure inclusive rural economic development in Arunachal Pradesh.
Keywords: Large Cardamom Cultivation, Production, Living Standards, Lower Subansiri, Arunachal Pradesh.
JEL Codes: D24, Q10, Q19.
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