British-era planters’ association in Idukki marks a historic milestone of 150 years

The Central Travancore Planters Association (CTPA), a British-era institution born out of the grit and ambition of early planters, has hit a historic milestone of 150 years. Established as a rallying point for the pioneers of Kerala’s plantation sector, the association traces its roots to 1874 when the Peermade Planters’ Association was formed.

The book Above Heron’s Pool by Heather Lovatt and Peter de Jong provides insights into its origins, stating: “As the number of planters in Peerumade grew, the idea of forming a local association took shape. In 1874, at the suggestion of Harry Clarke and F.M. Parker, the Peermade Planters’ Association was established.”

Coffee’s loss, tea’s gain

By 1894, the tea plantations in Peerumade had gained prominence in south India following a devastating coffee leaf disease outbreak in Ashambu. During this period, G.L. Ackworth, owner of the Arnakal estate and secretary of the Peermade Planters’ Association, proposed renaming it as Central Travancore Planters Association. His vision was to enhance the visibility of Travancore and its tea industry.

According to Ashish Thomas Jacob, secretary of the Vandiperiyar Club, where the association is based, planters associations have maintained a strong presence in the plantation industry since the British era. The British established the Vandiperiyar Club, where CTPA meetings were traditionally held. The association’s first office was located atMount, near Vandiperiyar, before being shifted to Vandiperiyar.

British tradition

Mr. Jacob said that until 1950, British planters served as the office-bearers of the CTPA. Even today, many British traditions are observed during association meetings. “The Vandiperiyar Club holds a treasure trove of old photographs and records documenting the CTPA’s early history. Descendants of British planters often visit the club to trace their family roots. Just last week, third-generation members had arrived in search of details about their ancestors and the plantation culture of the past,” said R. Samraj, president of the CTPA.

Celebration today

To commemorate 150 years of CTPA, the Vandiperiyar Club will host a celebration on February 12. S. Soundararajan, Director of the Tea Board, will be the chief guest, while Prince Thomas George, chairperson of the Association of Planters of Kerala (APK), will deliver the keynote address.