Value-added farmers’ produce to be marketed under 'Kerala Brand’ for better price, says CM V.D. Satheesan

Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan of Kerala has introduced a new initiative to market value-added farm produce under the Kerala Brand. This move aims to ensure fair prices for farmers and facilitate their exports, particularly through the Vizhinjam port. Speaking at the State-level Farmers’ Day celebrations in Kalamassery, Kochi, on Monday, August 17, 2026, Satheesan announced plans to draft a new agriculture policy and programs to support farmers, who he described as the backbone of the State.

The government plans to take measures to reopen closed plantations and promote tourism and multi-cropping while maintaining agricultural and environmental ecosystems. Within two months of his term, farmers have been compensated and rubber prices have been increased to ₹300 from ₹250. Compensation for crop loss due to floods and other natural calamities has also been raised by 25%.

Satheesan highlighted the integration of technology, including artificial intelligence, to combat wildlife attacks, which are the biggest threats to farming. He also presented the first award named after former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy to a traditional seed conservator, Cheruvayal Raman.