IJSRP, Volume 3, Issue 5, May 2013 Edition [ISSN 2250-3153]
N K Bhattarai, T N Deka, P. Chhetri, K N Harsha, U. Gupat
Abstract:
Large cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) belongs to family Zingibereaceae and order Scitaminae is the most suitable cash crop for the hilly terrain of the state of Sikkim. Likewise a large section of farmers in North Sikkim and most parts of Sikkim are engaged in large cardamom cultivation. For years cardamom has been the single most crucial cash crop to these stakeholders. However recent times have shown a steep decline in the land holdings, as well as productivity under large cardamom. Although not evident apparently, it has drastically affected the livelihood of a large section of the rural population.