Why in news?
During the Budget session in March 2026, the Minister of State for Agriculture told Parliament that India contributes over 30 percent of the world’s coconut production and supports about 30 million livelihoods. He also announced a new Coconut Promotion Scheme in the Union Budget 2026–27 aimed at replanting ageing trees and boosting high‑value crops like coconut, cashew and cocoa.
Background
Coconut is a major tree crop of the tropical coastlands. India has around 2.165 million ha under coconut and produces roughly 21.3 billion nuts each year, making it the world’s largest producer. The tree is revered in India as the Kalpavriksha (wish‑fulfilling tree) because every part – water, kernel, husk and leaves – can be used. Major coconut‑growing states include Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, although states like Goa and Odisha also cultivate the palm. Karnataka recently overtook Kerala as India’s top producer, reflecting successful scientific farming practices.
Ecology and cultivation
- Climate: Coconut is a tropical plant grown mainly between 20° N and 20° S. It thrives in humid coasts up to about 600 m elevation. The optimum temperature is around 27 ± 5 °C with relative humidity above 60 percent and well‑distributed rainfall of about 2,000 mm annually.
- Soils: The palm adapts to many soils – from sandy to red loams – but requires good drainage. Coastal alluvium and red sandy loam are ideal.
- Uses: Coconuts provide edible oil, water, milk and coir for ropes and mats. Leaves are used for thatching and husks for fuel. The palm also features in Hindu rituals and festivals.
- Promotion scheme: The 2026 budget allocates funds to replace senile trees with high‑yielding hybrids and supports farmers in adopting value‑added products. The scheme forms part of a ₹350 crore outlay for high‑value crops.
Significance
- Coconut cultivation sustains millions of farmers, women co‑operatives and workers in the coir and oil industries.
- India’s large share of global production makes it a key player in international markets. Increasing productivity and value addition will enhance export earnings.
- The promotion scheme aims to rejuvenate plantations and improve income security for growers while supporting climate‑resilient agriculture.
Source: PIB
