Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan holds post-Budget discussion with coconut farmers and stakeholders in Chennai
Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan holds post-Budget discussion with coconut farmers and stakeholders in Chennai
Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan today participated in an important post-Budget discussion in Chennai with coconut-growing farmers, scientists, agricultural experts and key stakeholders associated with the coconut sector. On this occasion, he discussed various issues related to the development of the coconut sector, increasing production and enhancing the income of farmers.
In his address, Shri Chouhan said that whenever he visits the sacred land of Tamil Nadu, his heart is filled with joy and enthusiasm. He paid tribute to the great people of Tamil Nadu, its rich culture, traditions and eminent personalities who have contributed significantly to the nation.
The Union Agriculture Minister said that Tamil Nadu is one of the major centres of coconut production in the country. He noted that nearly 1.25 crore farmers across India are associated with coconut cultivation, while the livelihoods of around 3 crore people depend on the coconut sector. He pointed out that coconut farmers are currently facing several challenges that are affecting productivity and sustainability in the sector.
He explained that many coconut plantations in the country have become nearly 60 years old, which has led to a decline in productivity. In addition, diseases such as root wilt and white fly are also adversely affecting coconut production. These challenges, he said, require coordinated efforts and innovative solutions to ensure that farmers are able to maintain productivity and improve their income levels.
Shri Chouhan said that in order to address these challenges, the government will place special emphasis on the development of new, advanced and disease-resistant varieties of coconut. The aim is to increase both the production and the quality of coconuts so that India can further strengthen its position in the global coconut export market.
He informed the gathering that extensive discussions are being held with farmers, scientists and experts so that practical and effective solutions can be developed collectively. According to him, these consultations are necessary to ensure that policy measures remain grounded in the real experiences and needs of farmers.
The Union Minister Shri Chouhan said that through the Coconut Promotion Scheme announced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the government will promote production, processing and intercropping, which will help in increasing the income of coconut farmers. He explained that encouraging intercropping along with coconut cultivation can significantly improve the economic viability of coconut farms and provide farmers with additional sources of income.
Shri Chouhan further stated that the government is committed to ensuring that coconut farmers receive better facilities and stronger institutional support. As part of this effort, several important initiatives will be undertaken. These include the establishment of new plantations in place of old and unproductive orchards, the development of high-quality nurseries, the availability of modern processing facilities, and greater emphasis on value addition in coconut-based products.
He also said that consultations are continuing with farmers and state governments in order to finalise the details of the Coconut Promotion Scheme. Once these discussions are completed, a comprehensive framework related to the Coconut Promotion Board will also be prepared. The aim of this framework will be to create a strong institutional structure that can guide and support the development of the coconut sector in the coming years. Shri Chouhan expressed confidence that the initiative will provide significant benefits to coconut farmers across the country. In particular, he noted that nearly 28 per cent of farmers in Tamil Nadu are expected to benefit from the implementation of the proposed measures and initiatives related to coconut development.
During the programme, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan also referred to the linguistic diversity of India. He said that India’s regional languages are extremely rich and beautiful, and they reflect the cultural heritage and diversity of the country. He suggested that participants in such discussions can communicate in their respective mother tongues, and if required, the assistance of translators can be taken. According to him, such an approach would not only make communication easier and more comfortable for participants but would also showcase the country’s unique combination of cultural diversity and national unity.