India proudly stands as the world’s foremost banana producer, boasting an impressive annual output of 24.8 million tonnes. This remarkable achievement surpasses global competition, with China, the Philippines, Ecuador, and Brazil trailing behind. India’s contribution represents a significant 22 per cent of the world’s total banana production. However, the story doesn’t end with the bountiful fruit; it extends to the often-overlooked banana stem, which is gaining recognition for its invaluable contribution to the fashion industry.
Typically harvested two to four times annually, banana stems have traditionally been discarded as waste. Yet, banana fibre is increasingly finding its place as a prominent substitute in the pulp industry and, notably, in the world of fashion. Renowned clothing lines and fashion designers are embracing this sustainable fabric, weaving it into stylish statements.
Banana fibre’s appeal lies not only in its eco-friendliness and biodegradability but also in its role as a vital source of employment for thousands of Indian farmers. Regions like Tamil Nadu’s Thiruvaiyaru, Thirupandurthi, Vadukakudy, Maruvur, and Nadukaveri are witnessing a shift from paddy cultivation to banana farming, driven by the prospect of greater profits.
After reaping the benefits of banana leaves, fruit, and flowers, farmers in these regions turn their attention to the stems, extracting valuable banana fibre. Many have leased additional lands and employed labourers to engage in this growing endeavour. Mathiyalagan, a farmer cultivating bananas on approximately 50 acres in Vaduka Gudi village in Tiruvaiyaru, shares his experiences.
Mathiyalagan, who also cultivated bananas in Wamaruvur and Chatanur Vadukakudi, employs around 30 permanent workers and 20 occasional labourers on his farm. He notes the exceptional quality of Tiruvaiyaru banana fibre, which becomes shiny, hard, and white under dry conditions. He exports the fibre produced on his farm to various parts of Tamil Nadu, ensuring the efficient extraction of banana fibre following banana leaf harvests.
The profitability of banana farming varies with rainfall, with Mathiyalagan mentioning earnings ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 45,000 per acre as a profit margin. He emphasizes that while not a consistent profit, it remains a lucrative venture, especially as the festive season approaches. With upcoming events like Saraswati Puja, Ayudha Puja, garlanding of the Ayyappan temple during Margazhi, and Pongal, the demand for banana fibre is expected to soar.
Mathiyalagan adds that, unlike other regions, the abundance of manpower in their area, with more than 1,000 families relying on banana fibre production, enables them to thrive in this business. This fruitful enterprise not only supports sustainable practices but also provides a livelihood for many, ushering in a new era of eco-conscious fashion.
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