The Bison Valley in Idukki, Kerala, has undergone a vibrant transformation as a newly cultivated sunflower farm has replaced previously fallow paddy fields. Spanning 40 acres, the blooming flowers have become a significant draw for visitors to the high-ranges, offering an impressive visual spectacle. Local farmer Jijo Joseph Puthenveettil, who has nurtured a passion for agriculture from a young age, initiated this project with the intent to rejuvenate abandoned lands once used for paddy cultivation, which had fallen idle due to labor shortages.
Starting with a lease on a paddy field in Muttukadu, Jijo embarked on sunflower cultivation as an experimental venture. The positive response generated by this initiative led him to expand his efforts onto one acre of his own land in the Bison Valley. Initially, the sunflower seeds were sourced from Tamil Nadu, but due to availability issues this season, Jijo procured seeds from Karnataka instead. The sunflower garden is now open to the public, attracting numerous tourists eager to experience the beauty of the sunflowers and capture memorable photographs.
In addition to the sunflowers, Jijo’s efforts include planting 24 varieties of bamboo, sourced from various locations, which have grown significantly over the past 15 years. These bamboo plants not only provide shade but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area, contributing to a picturesque landscape.
Idukki, one of Kerala’s 14 districts, was established on January 26, 1972. Renowned for its mountainous terrain and lush forests, Idukki is largely recognized for its considerable contribution to the state’s power generation, with approximately 66 percent of Kerala’s electricity coming from hydropower projects based in this region. Located in the Western Ghats, Idukki is the second-largest district in Kerala by area but has the lowest population density among the districts.
The district is characterized by extensive forest reserves, with over half of its land covered in forestation. While urban areas in Idukki are densely populated, its rural locales are more sparsely inhabited. Additionally, Idukki is often referred to as the spice garden of Kerala, highlighting its agricultural diversity.
