How has Gujarat Achieved a Record Coconut Production of Over 26 Crore?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Gujarat has achieved a coconut production of over 26 crore this year.
- The government provides significant financial aid to farmers.
- Farmers are diversifying into various coconut by-products.
- Budget allocation for the Gujarat Coconut Development Programme is Rs 5.5 crore.
- Projected increase in coconut cultivation area from 22,451 to 28,197 hectares.
New Delhi, Sep 6 (NationPress) Gujarat has emerged as a prominent player in the coconut production sector within India. This year, the state has achieved an astounding output of over 26 crore coconut units.
The state government is actively promoting coconut farming, resulting in a significant increase in coconut trees across various coastal districts such as Gir Somnath, Junagadh, Bhavnagar, Valsad, Kutch, Navsari, and Dwarka.
This surge in coconut production can be attributed to the government’s support through financial aid and the subsidization of pesticides.
Dilip Borse, a farmer from Somnath district, credits the government’s consistent initiatives for the spike in coconut yield, stating that such efforts significantly contribute to enhancing productivity.
“Farmers cultivating coconuts receive Rs 13,000 per hectare, along with an extra Rs 5,000 per hectare for pesticides. This financial assistance is invaluable for coconut farmers and enables hassle-free cultivation. The coconut-producing farmers are delighted with this initiative,” he mentioned.
In addition to promoting coconut farming, the government is encouraging farmers to explore various by-products, creating new trade opportunities and boosting their financial independence.
Manoj Agarwal, the Deputy Horticulture Officer of Junagadh, noted that farmers are now producing coconut water, coco peat, coconut halwa, and other products to sell in the market. This diversification is enhancing their income and fortifying the rural economy.
Under the Gujarat Coconut Development Programme, the state government has allocated a budget of Rs 5.5 crore for the financial year 2024-25. The scheme offers financial support of up to Rs 42,500 per hectare in various stages.
The area designated for coconut cultivation in Gujarat is projected to expand from 22,451 hectares in 2014-15 to 28,197 hectares by 2024-25, according to government forecasts.
Currently, approximately 40% of the coconuts produced in Gujarat are distributed to states such as Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.