Gandhinagar, May 13: Recent data from the state’s horticulture department reveals a remarkable 20% increase in raw coconut production in Gujarat over the past two years. The total annual production is now estimated at approximately 260 million coconuts.
This growth reflects the ongoing expansion of coconut farming in the state’s coastal districts, indicating a gradual shift towards horticulture-based agriculture. Currently, coconut cultivation spans around 28,000 hectares in Gujarat, with significant contributions from districts such as Gir Somnath, Junagadh, Bhavnagar, Valsad, Navsari, Kutch, and Devbhoomi Dwarka.
During the 2024-25 period, the average productivity of raw coconuts was about 9.26 thousand per hectare, signaling improved yields in several producing areas. This increase has been supported by government-backed horticultural initiatives, including training programs and awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging farmers to adopt horticulture and value-added crops.
Under existing schemes, farmers receive subsidies of up to 75% for establishing coconut orchards. Additional support is provided for agricultural practices such as mulching and integrated pest management, while irrigation assistance is available through drip systems provided by Gujarat Green Revolution Company Limited.
Government nurseries also supply planting materials, including high-yielding, dwarf, and hybrid coconut varieties. Despite the overall increase in production, farmers cultivating coconuts in the coastal area stretching from Chorwad to Una, locally known as ‘Leeli Nagar,’ have faced challenges in recent years due to an outbreak of the Rugose Whitefly.
This pest has impacted the health and yield of orchards in several regions. However, officials and farmers report gradual improvements following the adoption of control measures and tailored agricultural practices. In the Sutrapada area of Gir district, farmer Dinesh Solanki has recorded significant productivity gains after implementing a locally developed pest control method.
He treated his orchards with a mixture of jaggery and Gir cow milk dissolved in 1,000 liters of water, claiming it helped reduce the whitefly infestation. Following this approach, his annual coconut yield surged from approximately 1,000-1,500 to 8,000-10,000 coconuts, leading to an income increase to about 1.2 to 1.5 million rupees per year.
The expansion of coconut farming is part of a broader horticultural strategy aimed at diversifying agriculture in the state. Officials have set a target to increase the area under coconut cultivation to 70,000 hectares in the coming years.
In addition to production growth, there is a strong emphasis on value addition and processing, with products like virgin coconut oil and coconut powder being developed to enhance market access and improve export potential. Data from the agriculture department suggests that ongoing support for coastal horticulture, improved pest management, and irrigation infrastructure are expected to further boost productivity and strengthen Gujarat’s position in coconut production in the years ahead.
Leave a Comment