In a significant push to bolster Tamil Nadu’s coconut farming sector, Collector M. Pradeep Kumar urged farmers to embrace cutting-edge technologies to boost production and income. Speaking at a seminar on coconut farming, organized by the Department of Horticulture under the National Horticulture Mission, Kumar highlighted the enduring benefits of coconut trees, which can support a generation. He emphasized that while Tamil Nadu ranks as the second-largest coconut-producing state in the country, with over 5,000 hectares dedicated to coconut cultivation in Tiruchi district alone, farmers face new challenges, particularly from emerging diseases.
Kumar stressed the importance of adopting the latest technologies to combat these diseases and enhance farm productivity. He advocated for a multi-faceted approach, including effective disease control, inter-cropping, value addition, and strategic marketing. Understanding the soil conditions of their farms, he said, is crucial for farmers to plan their cultivation strategies effectively. By integrating these technologies, farmers can not only make their cultivation more profitable but also ensure a steady increase in their annual income.
The seminar featured expert sessions led by faculty members from the TNAU Horticulture College and Research Institute for Women, Tiruchi. These sessions delved into various aspects of coconut farming, providing farmers with valuable insights and practical knowledge. B. Vasantha, Joint Director of Agriculture, and S. Saranya, Deputy Director of Agriculture, also addressed the gathering, further enriching the discussion with their expertise.
The event underscored the critical need for farmers to stay updated with the latest advancements in agriculture. By doing so, they can overcome the challenges posed by new diseases and environmental changes, ultimately securing a more prosperous future for themselves and the agricultural sector as a whole.
