Mon Mar 31 13:35:45 UTC 2025: ## Periyakulam Farmers Receive Black Pepper Cultivation Training
**Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu, March 31, 2025** – A training program on advanced black pepper cultivation techniques was conducted on March 26th at the Horticultural College and Research Institute in Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu. The program, a joint initiative of the Department of Spices and Plantation Crops and the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture, aimed to boost black pepper production in the region.
The event saw participation from 149 farmers from Theni district. Speakers highlighted India’s prominent position as a leading producer, consumer, and exporter of black pepper, noting the crop’s cultivation across Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and parts of the Northeast. Currently, India cultivates black pepper across 1.34 lakh hectares, yielding 66,000 tonnes annually. The growing global demand, particularly for organic pepper, which commands premium prices, was also emphasized.
The training included technical sessions, demonstrations, and the release of a new book on pepper cultivation. The program was presided over by J. Rajangam, Dean of the Horticultural College, with T. Prabhu, Associate Professor and Principal Investigator, welcoming attendees. K. Thangaraja, Deputy Director of Extension at the Coffee Board, delivered a special address. R. Ramaraj of the Spices Board also offered felicitations.
First Piper 