20% Rise in Gujarat's Coconut Output Signals Agri Boom

In a testament to innovative farming, Gujarat's coconut production has climbed 20% in two years, now projected at 260 million nuts per year. Coastal districts are at the forefront, transforming the state's agricultural landscape. Spanning 28,000 hectares, cultivation thrives in Gir Somnath, Junagadh, Bhavnagar, and others. The 2024-25 productivity hit 9,260 nuts per hectare, thanks to robust government backing. Subsidies cover 75% of planting costs, with added aid for advanced techniques like mulching and pest management. Drip systems from Gujarat Green Revolution Company and superior seedlings from state nurseries have supercharged growth. Farmers faced setbacks from Rugose Whitefly in areas growing 'Leely Nager' coconuts between Chorwad and Una. But resilience shines through. Take Dinesh Solanki from Sutrapada in Gir district. His organic spray—jaggery and Gir cow milk mixed in water—decimated the pest. Yields jumped from meager 1,000-1,500 to 8,000-10,000 nuts annually, boosting earnings to 12-15 lakhs. Gujarat's vision extends beyond volume. Plans target 70,000 hectares under coconut, paired with processing for virgin oil and powder to fuel exports. Ongoing investments in infrastructure promise sustained gains, positioning Gujarat as a leader in tropical horticulture and farmer prosperity.