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India's Coconut and Coir Economy

Coconut and Coir: Recap

A recap of India's coconut and coir economy.

Every part of the coconut has value.

Module recap

  • The coconut palm gives food, oil and fibre.
  • Copra becomes oil.
  • Tender coconuts earn more.
  • Coir comes from husks.
  • India is the largest coir exporter.
  • Coconut oil’s health is debated.
  • Climber shortages raise costs.
  • New products add value.
  • Shells make activated carbon.
  • Disease and age cut yields.
  • Kerala’s economy has shifted.

Lesson

Value addition raises incomes from a single crop.

The whole palm

A single coconut palm supplies drinks, oil, mats and water filters.

Thinking coconuts are a simple crop

They support many industries.

Key takeaways
  • Coconuts support many products.
  • Coir is a big export.
  • Labour and disease are challenges.
  • Value addition helps farmers.
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