Improving income from coconut cultivation through farm level value addition - An analysis

Abstract

The study was conducted during 2009 - 10 with the objectives to analyze the profile of farm level processors, coconut value addition, constraints faced by them and offer suggestions to farmers adopting minimal processing , direct marketing of tender nuts, copra making, coconut oil/ virgin coconut oil, soap and food products. it was found that 63.3% of the respondents were of middle age group, literate, experienced in coconut value addition for less than 8 years;low income group and 80% of them were women. Further the entrepreneurship behavior of the respondents were found to be positively and significantly correlated with their credit availed, annual income and investment made. The need for reorientation of training in curricula in terms of project preparation techniques, communication/marketing skills etc, is emanated from the study. The value addition obtained per nut was found to vary from Rs. 0.5 to 15 depending on the products. The constraints and suggestions for improving farm level value addition activities are also furnished as perceived by the respondent farmers. The study showed that there is tremendous potential for farm level value addition for utilizing the marketable surplus locally and the benefits to be mutually shared by the coconut growers with further technology and developmental support.