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KOCHI, INDIA, November 11, 2002: Though the concept of organic farming has been catching on in Kerala for some time, absence of an effective market along with chances of corporatism of this sector is presenting a mixed scenario. “The concept is still evolving here,” says Dayal, a senior organic farmer and organizer of the Muhamma-based Jaiva Karshaka Samithy. Formed in 1992, the Samithy acts as the first organized platform of organic farmers in the State. Over the last couple of decades, numerous groups as well as individual farmers have entered the organic farming sector, some out of a momentary ecological zeal and some guided by an insight into sustainable farming. While an increased awareness of “healthy food,” untainted by chemical fertilizers and pesticides, is spreading among the middle classes, organic products have also begun to find a slot in the international market. Tony Mathew, an activist who runs Elements, a distribution center for organic products, warns of some pitfalls. “Organic farming is becoming more of a technical exercise and not a culture,” he says, pointing out the involvement of NGO’s as well as that of the government bodies like the Spices Board. Corporate forces are also eyeing the organic farming sector.

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