Context:
The Spices Board of India has introduced the SPICED scheme — “Sustainability in Spice Sector through Progressive, Innovative and Collaborative Interventions for Export Development” — for the financial year 2025–26.
The scheme provides financial assistance for a wide range of components to enhance sustainability, productivity, quality, and global competitiveness in the Indian spices sector.
Key Objectives
- Boost productivity of small and large cardamom.
- Modernize post-harvest practices for higher quality output.
- Promote organic, GI-tagged, and value-added spices.
- Ensure compliance with international food safety and phytosanitary standards.
- Strengthen stakeholder capacity across the value chain.
- Support export promotion, especially for first-time exporters and MSMEs.
Eligibility & Application Timeline
| Category | Application Start | Last Date |
|---|---|---|
| Exporters (Export-related) | May 26, 2025 | June 30, 2025 |
| Farmers & FPOs (Dev. components) | May 26, 2025 | September 30, 2025 |
Core Components of the SPICED Scheme
For Farmers and FPOs
- Replanting & rejuvenation of cardamom plantations
- Water resource development and micro-irrigation systems
- Promotion of organic farming and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)
- Installation of modern post-harvest equipment, such as:
- Spice polishers
- Turmeric boilers
- Mint distillation units
- Threshing and grading machines
- Dryers, slicers, and dehullers
For Exporters
- Support to participate in international trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and market linkage programs
- Special focus on first-time exporters and MSMEs
- Assistance in showcasing Indian spices in global markets
Significance of the SPICED Scheme
- Reinforces India’s leadership in sustainable spice production
- Empowers smallholders and rural spice farmers with infrastructure and market access
- Drives value addition and innovation to meet evolving global demand
- Aligns with Make in India, export growth, and climate-smart agriculture objectives
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