THRISSUR: When tribal couple from Sastampoovam colony in Chalakudy joined hands with the Krishi Vigyan Kendra and the Forest Department, many delicious dishes were created from the unique forest products. Three couples Shekhar - Anita, Rajendran - Aswathi and Jobindran - Vasantha, who have been collecting forest products for years, have made dishes using natural honey and fruits. Honey is used instead of sugar in the jam.

They were given two weeks of training at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra,Thrissur and in their colony. Forest Department, Vellikulangara range inspired the initiative. They made jam with mango, honey, plantain and figs and dehydrated banana fig.

This is for the first time that colony natives made such products from forest resources. It is sold through the Eco-shop under the Chalakudy Forest Division and stalls at fairs. Their main source of income is the collection of forest products like wild honey, ginger and orila. The forest department will procure the resources through the Forest Protection Committee.

Price (Rs 150 grams)

Honey Banana Spread – 60

Mango Honey Jam - 70

Dehydrated Banana Fig – 30 (50 g)