The betel leaf farmers of Tirur, a town in Kerala’s Malappuram district, are anxiously hoping for improved relations between India and Pakistan. Their livelihoods are intricately tied to the export of Tirur’s famed betel leaves, known for their distinctive flavor and size.
When Imran Khan assumed the role of Pakistan’s Prime Minister, a local Kerala newspaper humorously questioned whether he would rescue Tirur’s betel leaves, a once-coveted commodity in Pakistan. The betel leaves, particularly the Tirur Lanka variety, were highly prized in Pakistan, leading to significant export opportunities. However, strained bilateral relations have put this trade at risk.
In response to the crisis, the Indian government has recently conferred a Geographical Indication (GI) tag on Tirur’s betel leaves. The GI tag aims to boost demand by officially recognizing the unique quality and origin of the product. This move is expected to help revitalize the struggling industry.
The market for Tirur betel leaves was once thriving, with exports reaching major Pakistani cities like Karachi and Lahore. Before 2016, the trade was robust, with one container of betel leaves set aside for export in goods trains. At its peak, the betel leaves fetched high prices, providing substantial income for local farmers.
However, trade dynamics changed drastically in 2016 when Pakistan imposed a 140% import tax on betel leaves. This tax led to a sharp decline in prices, with the cost dropping from ₹70 per bundle to ₹29. Consequently, the livelihoods of around 12,000 farmers have been adversely affected, and many traders have left the business.
Tirur’s once-bustling paan bazaar, a hub of activity, has seen a significant downturn. The number of betel leaf traders has dwindled from 80 to just 20, and many commercial establishments have replaced the former trade centers.
Farmers like Krishnan T., who had hoped for prosperity through their betel leaf farming, are now grappling with reduced income. Some have shifted to other livelihoods, such as coconut plucking, to make ends meet. Despite the challenges, there remains a glimmer of hope among the farmers that improved relations with Pakistan will restore their market and revive their industry.
As Tirur’s betel leaf farmers await a potential revival, they continue to pray for peace between the two nations, hoping that their treasured product will once again find favor across the border.
