Unique farmer stories portrayed in latest report on the sustainable spices sector in India

IDH published its latest report on the Sustainable Spices Initiative India (SSI-I). The report gives a good overview of the Indian spices sector and multiple projects that are currently taking place, while also providing in-depth information through unique farmer stories explaining how the projects work by real life examples.

Seven projects are highlighted from key spice-growing regions in India within four spices sectors: chili, coriander, cumin and turmeric. Each project is explained by means of multiple topics concerned with Responsible Agrochemical Management, gender empowerment, farmer working conditions and environmental challenges.

The report portrays 13 farmer stories, providing a real-life context of their situation. The farmers tell about their experiences with the program, the trainings they received and how it has benefited them. Besides, they share some of the creative solutions they came across during efforts to manage their pesticide use. The report gives a unique insight in the working life of spices farmers in India and explains in a practical and visual way what the different programs entail.

SSI-I is part of the global Sustainable Spices Initiative program, an industry-led voluntary multi-stakeholder platform. It aims to drive sustainable sourcing in the Indian spice industry while improving the livelihoods of producers, and giving consumers increased access to sustainable, food-safe spices. The SSI-I works on making transparent, credible and traceable sustainable spices in India a mainstream commodity, serving both domestic and international markets with the aim to capture a 25% share of Indian spices production by 2025.