Impact of climate change on black pepper production in Idukki and Wayanad districts of Kerala

Climate change is the major non price factor responsible for reduced production of food crops. A study was conducted in Idukki and Wayanad districts of Kerala to analyse the impact of climate change on black pepper production based on the secondary data collected for a period of 30 years from 1987 to 2016. From the panel data analysis, it was revealed that temperature during 3rd and 4th quarters has negative impact on pepper production. Rainfall during 2nd quarter was found to have positive impact on pepper production but was statistically insignificant. Compound annual growth rate of the climatic variables showed that, rainfall and maximum temperature had negative growth trend, while minimum temperature had positive growth trend in both the districts. Morning and evening relative humidity of the two districts showed opposite trends which was positive for Wayanad district and negative for Idukki district.