SPICED Scheme Post-Harvest Improvement: ICCD for Small Cardamom 2026-27

SPICED scheme supports small cardamom growers by giving money help to adopt Improved Cardamom Curing Devices (ICCD) for better quality drying and stronger export potential. The Spices Board has opened applications for this post-harvest improvement component for the financial year 2026-27, and eligible growers can now apply online.

SPICED Scheme Post-Harvest Improvement: ICCD for Small Cardamom - Introduction

The Spices Board India, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, runs the Sustainability in Spice Sector through Progressive, Innovative and Collaborative Interventions for Export Development (SPICED) scheme. This scheme replaced the earlier Integrated Scheme for Export Promotion and Quality Improvement in Spices, which was set for the 15th Finance Commission period (2021-22 to 2025-26).

SPICED has been extended up to 30 September 2026, or until the proposed scheme for the 16th Finance Commission cycle gets approval, whichever comes first. Under this scheme, the Post-Harvest Improvement component helps growers switch to Improved Cardamom Curing Devices (ICCD). By modernizing the drying process, the scheme makes sure the produce is of high quality and meets international export standards.

Applications for the SPICED scheme for 2026-27 started on 1 July 2026, and the last date to apply is 31 August 2026. Growers who want the ICCD subsidy must go through the official online process before this deadline.

Key Information

Benefits

Eligible people get financial support based on their category. The subsidy amount depends on the category the grower falls under:

• General Category: 33.33% of the unit cost, capped at ₹1,50,000 per unit.
• SC/ST Category: 75% of the unit cost, capped at ₹3,37,500 per unit.
• Spice Producer Groups (Identified Clusters): 90% of the unit cost, capped at ₹4,00,000 per unit.

Eligibility

To qualify for the subsidy, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a registered cardamom grower located in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or Karnataka.
• Must possess a land holding size between 0.40 hectares and 8 hectares.
• Final eligibility is decided after a physical inspection by designated Spices Board officials.

Application Process

Growers can apply for the ICCD subsidy through the Service Plus portal. The whole process is online and easy to follow. Here are the steps:

STEP 1 - Visit the official Service Plus portal at serviceonline.gov.in/dbt/.

STEP 2 - Complete the registration process by providing your name, email, mobile number, and state details.

STEP 3 - Verify your identity using the OTP sent to your registered contact details.

STEP 4 - Log in to your account, select this specific scheme, and fill out the application form with all required information.

STEP 5 - Submit the application along with all required supporting documents before the last date.

Documents

Applicants must provide the following documents while submitting the application:

• Aadhaar Card
• Current year land tax receipt (Chitta/Adangal)
• Bank Passbook details
• Cardamom Registration (CR/ACR) certificate
• Valid invoice and payment receipts for the device purchased from a Spices Board-empaneled manufacturer

References

• SPICED Scheme Guidelines PDF
• Spices Board SPICED Scheme Page
• Online Application Portal (Service Plus)

FAQ's

What is the purpose of the ICCD scheme?

Targeted at small cardamom growers, this scheme gives financial aid to install modern, improved curing devices to improve the quality of dried produce for the export market.

Who manages this program?

The program is managed by the Spices Board India, part of the Government of India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry, under the SPICED scheme.

Can any grower apply for this subsidy?

Registered growers with land holdings between 0.40 and 8 hectares located in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or Karnataka are eligible.

Are there specific manufacturers for the equipment?

Yes, all curing equipment must be purchased from manufacturers who are officially empaneled by the Spices Board.

How much subsidy can an SC/ST applicant receive?

SC/ST applicants are eligible for 75% of the unit cost, up to a maximum limit of ₹3,37,500 per unit.

What is the last date to apply for 2026-27?

Applications for the SPICED scheme for 2026-27 opened on 1 July 2026, and the last date to apply is 31 August 2026.