India’s Dominance in Coconut Production
India’s coconut sector continues to play a vital role in agriculture and rural livelihoods:
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Global share: 30.37%
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Area under cultivation: 21.65 lakh hectares
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Annual production: 21,373.62 million nuts
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Average productivity: 9,871 nuts per hectare
Coconut cultivation supports nearly 30 million people, including around 10 million farmers, highlighting its importance as a livelihood crop.
New Coconut Promotion Scheme
The government has introduced the Coconut Promotion Scheme as part of the Union Budget 2026–27, aimed at:
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Increasing coconut production
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Enhancing farm productivity
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Improving global competitiveness
Key interventions include:
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Replacement of old and unproductive trees
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Introduction of high-yielding saplings and improved varieties
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Strengthening cultivation practices in major coconut-growing states
₹350 Crore Push for High-Value Agriculture
The scheme is part of a broader ₹350 crore allocation focused on high-value crops such as:
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Coconut
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Cashew
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Cocoa
This move reflects the government’s strategy to diversify agriculture and boost export-oriented crops.
Implementation Status
The scheme is currently under formulation, and state-wise fund allocation and utilisation details are yet to be finalised.
Government Statement
The information was shared by Bhagirath Choudhary, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.
Outlook
With strong global leadership in coconut production and targeted policy support, India is well-positioned to:
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Enhance productivity and farmer incomes
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Strengthen value-added coconut products
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Expand its footprint in global markets
The Coconut Promotion Scheme is expected to play a key role in modernising the sector and ensuring sustainable growth.
Image credit: parachutekalpavriksha.org/
