In Palakkad, Kerala, the paradoxical situation of soaring coconut prices and declining production has left farmers in distress. The price of coconut in the local market has reached Rs 80 per kg while coconut oil is selling for over Rs 400 a litre, according to recent reports from The Print. However, this prosperity in the market does not reflect on the ground, as farmers struggle with a steep decline in production.
The reasons behind this production decline are attributed to factors such as aging trees, pest infestation, and unpredictable weather patterns. This has forced exporters to reschedule work shifts due to reduced procurement from local farmers, affecting their export volumes significantly.
This situation is of particular concern in Kerala, a state known for its rich coconut cultivation history. The Coconut Development Board, the central agency responsible for promoting the cultivation and processing of coconuts in India, has been called upon to address this issue.
Efforts are underway to combat the issues plaguing the coconut farming sector. The United States, a significant market for Indian coconut products, has expressed interest in assisting with modern farming techniques and pest management strategies.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the coconut farming sector not just in Kerala, but across Tamil Nadu as well. With the monsoon season fast approaching, farmers are hoping for better weather conditions that could potentially help revive their ailing crops.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
