Cocoa Genetic Resources and Their Utilization in Palm- Based Cropping Systems of India

Abstract

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.), became an integral part of palm-based cropping systems of India. It is being grown profitably as mixed crop under arecanut (Areca catechu L.), coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) and oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) gardens of the southern states Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. It is well adapted to the humid tropics with high rainfall and short dry spells as well as irrigated gardens of tropical belts, utilizing the shade provided by the palms. Research efforts of more than four decades at the ICAR- CPCRI (Indian Council of Agricultural Research- Central Plantation Crops Research Institute) and KAU (Kerala Agriculture University) has allowed efficient utilization of conserved cocoa genetic resources by farmers to provide additional income through multispecies cropping systems in the spices and plantation sector. National Horticulture Mission of Govt. of India identified cocoa as a potential crop for area expansion and development to meet both internal and export demands. Improved varieties were developed with high pod yield, bean quality, suitable to different agro climatic zones and to tackle major biotic and abiotic stress. This chapter outlines the contributions of cocoa breeding efforts at the research institutes and State Agricultural Universities; developmental programs of Ministry of Agriculture and procurement and processing facilities to the growth of the cocoa sector in India.