Idukki district in Kerala lies very close to the border with the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. The vineyards in the border villages of Tamil Nadu are as beloved by travellers as the sights of Idukki. Tamil Nadu is known to be among the topmost grape producers in the country with many beautiful vineyards.
Those who visit Kerala’s Thekkady, Ramakkalmedu and Parunthumpara often enjoy the vineyards in the Kambam and Gudalur regions of Tamil Nadu before returning.
Now, it has been proven that vineyards can thrive in Idukki itself, thanks to Kunjumon from Upputhara. When he visited his daughter’s house, he planted and nurtured a grapevine given by a neighbour out of curiosity. Although the plant grew well, it did not bear fruit in the first year. Later, agricultural knowledge from his neighbour proved helpful. Following their advice, he plucked the new leaves in September to prepare the plant for the fruit to yield.
This time, Kunjumon’s grapevine produced an abundant harvest. Many people come to enjoy the sight of the heavily laden vine in a specially prepared trellis in his yard. His grapevine has become something of a tourist site for people from neighbouring regions as it has broken the myth that grapes cannot be cultivated in the climate of Kerala.
With the success of his cultivation, the farmer is preparing to expand to more areas. Considering the soil quality and climate, he plans to undertake further activities. For those visiting the vineyards, this is a new experience. Numerous children and adults eagerly come to enjoy the beautiful sight among the grape clusters. There is no doubt that Kunjumon’s wonderful venture will inspire many other farmers. The successful story of grape cultivation is sure to create new trends in this area.
Coming to the biggest grape producers in the country, Maharashtra leads with 81 per cent of the total production, followed by Karnataka, Tamil Nady and Punjab.
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