Coconut, scientifically known as Cocos nucifera L., is a vital crop for many Indian farmers and plays a significant role in the nation's agricultural economy. India ranks as one of the top three global producers of coconuts, yet the average productivity remains below that of high-yielding varieties. Enhancing productivity is critical for boosting the profitability and sustainability of coconut farming in the country. Beyond its agricultural value, the coconut palm holds immense cultural and religious significance in India.
Revered as the 'Kalpavriksha' (the tree that provides everything), it is frequently celebrated in Indian literature and spirituality. The coconut fruit, also known as 'Lakshmi Phal,' is an essential part of rituals and ceremonies that symbolize national unity, extending from Kashmir in the north to Kanyakumari in the south. Even in regions where coconuts are not cultivated locally, the fruit's cultural importance can be traced to historical migration patterns and changing climates, highlighting its deep-rooted influence in Indian society.
Coconut Varieties
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research - Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CPCRI) has developed some improved coconut varieties, suited for different agro-ecological zones. These varieties are broadly classified into dwarf, semi-tall, and tall categories based on their plant habits and breeding strategies.
Dwarf / Semi-Tall Varieties
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Chowghat Orange Dwarf: This dwarf variety makes beautiful orange-colored, medium size fruits, intended for tender nut consumption and decorative purposes. Blooms 3-4 years after planting; yields 112-192 nuts per year under favorable management. Well suited for both ornamental purposes and tender nut consumption, and hence a dual-purpose variety.
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Kalpasree: A root (wilt) disease-resistant variety with dark green fruits that yield 90-107 nuts every year. This variety has a sweet tender nut water and is immune to common pests. Suitable areas are those plagued by diseases and pest problems, making yields stable and predictable.
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Kalpa Jyothi: This dwarf variety has yellow, oval fruits and starts flowering within three years, yielding 114-169 nuts per year. Its attractive fruit and early bearing make it ideal for quick returns.
Tall Varieties
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Chandra Kalpa: It is known for high yield and moisture-deficit tolerance, this variety produces 100-136 nuts per year with high oil content. Best suited for regions with limited water supply, focusing on oil production.
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Kalpa Dhenu: It is suitable for copra and oil production, with an annual nut yield of 86-128 nuts, the tree is tolerant of drought conditions. Suitable for areas with dry climates and for the farmer who emphasizes copra and oil.
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Kalpatharu: This variety is known for premium ball copra, with an annual nut yield of 117-149, it is best suited for rainfed and irrigated conditions. Versatile, suitable for most farming conditions where high-value copra production is emphasized.
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Kalpa Haritha: This variety is also being grown for copra and tender nut production. It can produce 118-205 nuts per year, which makes it good for farmers who desire to have multifaceted products on their farms.
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Kera Chandra: This variety is high-yielding, producing between 110-140 nuts annually, and is good for both copra and tender nut production. It is ideal for farmers who want to reap more yield or greater product diversification
Hybrid varieties
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Chandra Sankara (COD × WCT): This hybrid produces 110-210 nuts per year and is good for copra and tender nut production. Suitable for farmers seeking high yields and product diversity.
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Chandra Laksha (LCT × COD): Drought tolerant, it is very much capable of yielding 109-175 nuts in a year. Ideal for areas where water is scarcest, high yield in focus.
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Kera Sankara (WCT × COD): Drought tolerance. 108-213 nuts per year. Suitable for copra and oil production. Ideal for drought-prone areas, guaranteeing stable oil production.
Which Variety You Should Choose
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For Diverse Requirements of Products: Kalpa Haritha is a perfect option because it is favorable for copra production and tender nut production.
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For Dry Conditions: Chandra Kalpa and Kera Sankara are excellent options with drought hardness.
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For Early Returns and Aesthetics: Chowghat Orange Dwarf and Kalpa Jyothi give early yields, and the fruits are also attractive.
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For Pest and Disease Prone Areas: Kalpasree is highly resistant to pests and diseases, providing constant yield.
Value Addition and Product Diversification
To enhance farmers' income, value addition, and product diversification are crucial. Here are some processing protocols for novel coconut products:
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Coconut Chips: It is a ready-to-eat snack made from dehydrated coconut kernel.
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Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO): It is produced using hot and fermentation processing from coconut milk.
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Coconut Sugar: It is made from Kalparasa.
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Coconut Milk Powder: It is made using foam mat drying.
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Vegan Frozen Delicacy: It is made from coconut milk, coconut sugar, and tender coconut.
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Carbonated Tender Coconut Water: A refreshing drink option.
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Value-Added Products from Coconut Water: It includes natural vinegar, squash, carbonated drinks, and jelly.
By using enhanced varieties and value-added goods, coconut farming in India has a great deal of room to grow and become profitable. The cutting-edge technology and processing procedures created by ICAR-CPCRI can help farmers increase their revenue and support the agricultural industry's sustainable growth.
