Big News from Idukki: Meet ICRI-10 – The Future of Green Cardamom

At Emperor Akbar Cardamom, we like to think of ourselves as not just sellers of great cardamom, but guardians of everything happening in the world of green cardamom. So when there’s a major update in our universe, you’ll hear it from us first.

And trust us—this one’s big.

 

What’s Happening?

The Spices Board of India has just announced a game-changing new variety of cardamom: ICRI-10. Think of it as a next-gen pod—built (quite literally) for the future. It’s been developed by the Indian Cardamom Research Institute (ICRI) over 10 years of research, and it’s designed to handle something that’s increasingly affecting farmers: climate change.

Yes, 2024 brought some seriously harsh drought conditions to Idukki, India’s most famous cardamom-growing region. The result? Huge crop losses across 16,000+ hectares. For farmers and cardamom lovers alike, that’s no small crisis.

 

Enter ICRI-10: A Pod with a Purpose

So why is everyone talking about this new variety?

  • It’s climate-resilient—made to survive low rainfall and tough weather.
  • It promises a higher yield—up to 3,000 kg per hectare.
  • It’s been tested through the worst and still performed.

The board is set to distribute limited seeds to farmers in the next crop cycle. The goal? Help secure the future of premium Indian cardamom—for the growers who nurture it and the fans who savour it worldwide.

 

Why This Matters to You (and Us)

For us at Emperor Akbar, cardamom isn’t just a spice - it’s a daily ritual, a family tradition, and a reason to pause and savour life. That’s why we stay close to the roots—literally.

We’ve been following the ICRI-10 development closely and are excited by what it could mean. More resilient crops = more consistent supply. That means better quality, more sustainable sourcing and protection for the very farms that make our cardamom magical.

 

What’s Next?

Will ICRI-10 be part of the Emperor Akbar family one day? Too early to say. But rest assured - we’re in constant conversation with our partners in Idukki. We’re watching, learning, and cheering on this important step forward for green cardamom farming.

 

The Takeaway

The world’s changing - and the cardamom world is evolving with it. ICRI-10 is a bold new chapter and we’re here to bring you along for the journey.

Until then, keep enjoying the pure, aromatic cardamom you know and love. And remember - when it comes to all things green cardamom, Emperor Akbar is always one step ahead.