Coconut Development Board Announces Boosts Aid for Coconut Farmers

As part of World Coconut Day celebrations on September 2, 2025, the Coconut Development Board (CDB) in Kerala announced a major boost in financial assistance for coconut farmers. With significantly increased subsidies for saplings, replanting, and technology upgrades, the initiative aims to promote sustainable coconut cultivation and increase farmer income across the state.

What Is World Coconut Day?

Global Awareness and Industry Promotion

World Coconut Day is celebrated every year on September 2 to raise awareness about the nutritional, economic, and ecological benefits of coconuts. It was established in 2009 by the International Coconut Community (ICC) to commemorate the founding of the organization, which began under UN ESCAP in 1969.

India’s Role in Coconut Cultivation

India is not only a founding member of the ICC, but also one of the largest producers of coconuts globally, with states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh leading cultivation efforts. The day holds special significance in Kerala, where coconut is deeply interwoven with the state’s culture, economy, and identity.

Financial Aid Announcement

• The Coconut Development Board will produce 2.5 lakh high-quality coconut saplings this year. The financial aid per sapling has been increased from ₹4 to ₹45, marking more than a tenfold rise. This will make quality planting material more accessible and affordable for small and marginal farmers.
• Farmers undertaking replanting of aged or unproductive coconut trees will now receive ₹350 per plant, up from just ₹40, encouraging rejuvenation of coconut farms and replacement of disease-prone palms.

Coconut Technology Mission Gets a Boost

Sixfold Increase in Support

Support under the Coconut Technology Mission has been increased six times, ensuring better access to,

• Post-harvest processing units
• Value addition infrastructure
• Technological innovation for productivity improvement

This aid is expected to enhance the marketability of coconut-based products, including coir, coconut oil, virgin coconut oil, coconut sugar, and shell-based products.

• Date observed: September 2 every year
• Organiser: International Coconut Community (ICC), established in 1969 under UNESCAP
• Sapling aid: Increased from ₹4 to ₹45 per sapling
• Replanting aid: Increased from ₹40 to ₹350 per tree
• Technology mission aid: Increased sixfold
• Target: 2.5 lakh coconut saplings to be distributed in 2025