Facing labour shortages and uncertain monsoons, areca nut farmers sought alternatives. Kadamba stepped in and, in 2009, introduced Agar Wood — a high-value, fragrant tree traditionally grown in Southeast Asia — to Uttara Kannada.
Background
Agar wood thrives in the region’s hilly terrain, sometimes offering returns more lucrative than sandalwood. It is in high demand in the Middle East and Western countries.
As a low-maintenance, high-value crop, agar wood serves as a financial asset — supporting retirement planning, children’s education and future stability. Under Kadamba’s leadership it has become a familiar horticultural crop in the region and is expanding into neighbouring districts.
Farmers growing agar wood
Plants distributed
Farmers in the distribution programme
