(a) whether pepper output has decreased recently;
(b) whether pepper import from Vietnam and Sri Lanka has increased; and
(c) if so, the steps being taken to promote the export of pepper?
(a) whether pepper output has decreased recently;
(b) whether pepper import from Vietnam and Sri Lanka has increased; and
(c) if so, the steps being taken to promote the export of pepper?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI HUKUMDEO NARAYAN YADAV)
(a): Pepper production in India during the last 3 years is as follows:
Year Quantity (tonnes)
2000-01 79000 2001-02 80000 2002-03 62000
Source: Spices Board
(b): The import of pepper from Vietnam and Sri Lanka in last 3 years is as follows:
Quantity (Tonnes)
Year Vietnam Sri Lanka
2000-01 667 1759 2001-02 2658 1241 2002-03 7428 8374
Source: Spices Board
(c): The major steps taken by the Spices Board to promote export of pepper are:
? Post harvest improvement through training and infrastructure development ? Support for organic farming ? Trade promotion through participation in international food fairs, exhibitions, deputation of business delegations, etc.
? Encouragement in value addition
? Support for:
- Upgradation of technology for processing - Setting up/upgradation of in-house laboratories in exporters` premises
? Award of Spice House Certificate & Indian Spices Logo for popularizing Good Manufacturing Practice/Good Hygienic Practices.