Idukki Gold

Idukki Gold or Kerala Gold (also known as Mahadevan or Neela Chadayan) is the name given to a cannabis strain originating in Idukki in Kerala state of southern India. It is internationally renowned as one of the finest cannabis strains in Asia.

History:

• Popular in the 80s due to cannabis strains in Idukki, Kerala
• Ideal climate in Western Ghats led to spread
• Named Idukki Gold, known as Neelachadayan or Neelam locally
• Cultivated and sold in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and beyond
• Found in north India and other countries

Extinction:

• Production decline due to forest depletion and law enforcement interference
• Depletion linked to rise in population
• Plantation shifted to Andhra-Odisha border, controlled by Naxalism
• Quality of current strain inferior to original Idukki Gold
• Continuous decline in production observed over the years

References:

• Article: ‘Kochi: A hotbed for ganja traffic?’ – The New Indian Express, 2011
• Article: ‘Idukki Gold: Illegal Selling of Ganja’ – The New Indian Express, 2015
• Article: ‘Asia’s Best Marijuana Is Grown In India And It’s In Kerala’ – indiatimes.com, 2018
• Various articles highlighting Idukki Gold’s popularity and decline
• Legal history of cannabis in the United States and globally

Cultural Impact:

• Idukki Gold gained cultural significance in Kerala and beyond
• Known for its potency and unique qualities
• Stories and folklore associated with the strain
• Popular among certain subcultures and communities
• Symbol of heritage and tradition in cannabis culture

Economic Significance:

• Idukki Gold contributed to the local economy through cultivation and trade
• Boosted tourism in regions where it was cultivated
• Generated revenue for farmers and sellers
• Created employment opportunities in the cannabis industry
• Illegal trade of Idukki Gold had economic implications

Idukki Gold Data Sources