KOCHI:
The attention of the Central Government has been drawn to some reports of acid or yellow ra
in in Moolakkada and Kunjithanni villages of Idukki Districts in Kerala and initial tests found that it was not harmful.
The matter has been examined by the Scientists of the Indian Cardamom Research Institute (under the Spices Board), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Govt of India, to find out the causes and effects of yellow rain.
According to the initial tests conducted on the material found on the cardamom leaf, there is no acidity, fungus or spores. No harmful physical or toxic effect has been noticed in the plants. The Ministry has also not received report of any such phenomenon in the areas growing large or black cardamom. A multi-disciplinary
team comprising experts from Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Indian Council of Agriculture Research and Kerala Agriculture University is being set up and deputed to the Idukki area for further investigation.
