Small Cardamom Irrigation Land Development: Irrigation Equipment is a component under the SPICED scheme run by the Spices Board for small cardamom growers in Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. It gives cash support for installing irrigation equipment so that growers can improve crop quality and productivity. The Spices Board has invited applications for the 2026-27 financial year.
This component earlier ran under the Integrated Scheme for Export Promotion and Quality Improvement in Spices and Research and Development of Cardamom. It now continues under SPICED, which stands for Sustainability in Spice Sector through Progressive, Innovative and Collaborative Interventions for Export Development. SPICED was approved for the 15th Finance Commission cycle up to the financial year 2025-26 and has been extended up to 30 September 2026 or until the new scheme for the 16th Finance Commission cycle is approved, whichever comes first.
Small Cardamom Irrigation Land Development: Irrigation Equipment Under SPICED Scheme
The Spices Board works under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Through this component, growers can get help to set up gravity irrigation, irrigation pump sets, and sprinkler, drip or micro-sprinkler sets. The aim is to make sure cardamom plants get water during the dry summer months, which helps panicle formation and keeps productivity steady.
Eligible growers in Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu can apply for this support. The subsidy is paid directly to the beneficiary account through e-payment after inspection and recommendation by the designated Spices Board officials.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Small Cardamom Irrigation Land Development: Irrigation Equipment (SPICED) |
|---|---|
| Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Commerce and Industry |
| Implementing Body | Spices Board |
| Benefit Type | Financial assistance (Cash) |
| Beneficiaries | Small cardamom growers in Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu |
| Application Mode | Online through ServicesPlus and Spices Board office |
| Official Website | www.indianspices.com |
Benefits
Support is given based on the type of irrigation equipment installed. The subsidy rates under the component are set as a share of the actual cost, with a fixed upper limit:
- Gravity irrigation: 25% of the actual cost or ₹2,500, whichever is less.
- Irrigation pump set: 25% of the actual cost or ₹10,000, whichever is less.
- Sprinkler, drip or micro irrigation: 25% of the actual cost or ₹21,175, whichever is less.
These rates help growers bring down the cost of putting in water-saving irrigation systems in their cardamom plantations. The exact amount depends on the equipment chosen and the actual cost of installation.
Eligibility
To apply for this component, a grower must meet the following conditions:
- The applicant must be a registered small cardamom grower.
- The grower must belong to the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu or Karnataka.
- The installed irrigation equipment must undergo a mandatory inspection and receive a recommendation from designated officials.
Application Process
STEP 1 - Register on the ServicesPlus portal at serviceonline.gov.in/dbt. Provide your personal details and verify your identity using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number or email.
STEP 2 - Log in to your account, select the relevant scheme from the list, and complete the application form with all required information.
STEP 3 - Attach the required documents and submit the application. A Spices Board official inspects each application and recommends eligible subsidy to the Zonal Assistant Director or Deputy Director for sanction.
Documents
Applicants must provide the following documents along with the application form:
- Document of ownership or legal possession of land (for example, Patta).
- Current year land tax receipt, RTC, or Chitta Adangal.
- CR/ACR/CDRC endorsement.
- Aadhaar card.
- Bank passbook.
- A price quotation from an authorized dealer, or three competitive quotations if an authorized dealer is not available.
References
Small Cardamom Scheme Details on Spices Board
FAQ's
What is the main aim of this component?
The component helps small cardamom growers set up scientific irrigation so that plants get water in the dry summer months, which improves quality and productivity.
Who can apply?
Registered small cardamom growers in Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu can apply.
Is the scheme still open in 2026?
Yes. The Spices Board has invited applications for the 2026-27 financial year under the SPICED scheme, which has been extended up to 30 September 2026 or until the new scheme for the 16th Finance Commission cycle is approved.
Can a previous beneficiary apply again?
No, the benefit is normally given only once per farmer.
How is the subsidy paid?
After inspection and recommendation, the subsidy is credited directly to the beneficiary's bank account through e-payment.