From Sapling to Success: Assam Teacher Transforms Vanilla Farming
In the heart of Assam, a dedicated high school educator, Camerina Rabha, has transformed a single vanilla sapling into a thriving enterprise, overcoming obstacles to cultivate this aromatic crop. Camerina's journey began with a sapling from Meghalaya. She tends to her plants meticulously, rising at 4 a.m. daily to hand-pollinate the flowers, as natural pollinators like Mellipona bees have become scarce due to climate change. She ensures only 5-6 out of 12 buds are pollinated to produce premium, Grade A beans over 7 inches long. Vanilla thrives in rich, well-drained upland soils and requires support structures. Camerina uses PVC poles wrapped in coconut husk and netting, along with kitchen and farm waste, and cocopeat to fertilize her soil. Despite the care, marketing remains a hurdle in Assam, where vanilla farming is in its infancy. She sells her mature beans for Rs 20,000 per kg, far below the global market price of Rs 40,000-Rs 50,000 per kg. Camerina's perseverance has turned a small idea into a flourishing venture. Her vanilla cultivation, despite challenges, proves the potential of this crop for women seeking flexible, profitable livelihoods. A single plant can produce over 1,000 cuttings and up to 2 kg of beans annually from the third year. Her dedication, as a full-time educator, serves as an inspiration for others to pursue their passions.
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