Under the leadership of Dr.R.Mahendran, one of the pioneers of Vanilla in India with two decades of experience in Vanilla Cultivation and Processing, the Initiative meticulously oversees Vanilla cultivation successfully through sustainable methods.

Under Indian Vanilla Initiative, small and large farmers cultivate Vanilla through contract farming tie-ups making use of the group’s own improved cultivation techniques. The Initiative ensures 100 % buy back at the farm gate from the growers with prices in tune with the market and the assurance of a Minimum Support Price.

Training sessions, workshops and personal interactions between farmers and field managers under the guidance of Dr.R.Mahendran are regularly held in order to educate farmers about best practices that could be adopted in Vanilla cultivation.

“Indian Vanilla Initiative, working in unison with the farming community in India has made significant progress through the Contract Farming Program. Technical support to farmers, distribution of quality planting material, and close monitoring of progress by field officers has ensured a strong foundation for the revival and rapid progression of sustainable Vanilla cultivation in India.”

Dr. R.Mahendran, Chairman, IVI