Slump in demand, pest attack dent coconut farmers’ income
The Hindu
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Slump in demand owing to the sluggish market conditions in the wake of coronavirus pandemic, curfew restrictions and pest attack have made a dent on the income of coconut farmers in Vizianagaram district. Coconut farming is a major source of livelihood for the farmers from Pusapatirega, Bhogapuram and other mandals in the district. At present, coconut farming is being done in 15,000 acres in the district and farmers need to invest around ₹30,000 per acre to harvest the crop worth ₹90, 000 a year. However, the restrictions imposed in the wake of coronavirus pandemic has put a dent in their income with the drop in demand and rate per coconut. Farmers who used to sell coconut at ₹17 a piece are getting ₹12 to ₹15 and a well-grown coconuts is available at ₹10. They could not send coconut to markets elsewhere in the State from April to June due to restriction on transport. Even as the curfew was relaxed in July, the farmers say the demand is yet to pick up.More Related News