Even though coconut, is an important food item grown in Tamil Nadu, has been lying in the groves for the past year due fall in prices and the improper procurement policy of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Coimbatore: BJP farmers' wing state president G K Nagaraj addressing a press conference at the BJP office on VKK Menon Road in Gandhipuram said two coconuts should be added to the Pongal gift hamper to save the livelihood of farmers.
He said that on January 5, protests will be held in all the District Collectorates in Tamil Nadu, demanding to save the livelihood of coconut farmers Free coconuts will be distributed to the public on the occasion to drive home the nutritious content of coconuts.
“Awareness will be created at each protest site by giving free coconuts to more than 4,000 families and by explaining the nutritional benefits of eating coconuts,” Nagaraj said.
Even though coconut, an important food item grown in Tamil Nadu, has been lying in the groves for the past year due fall in prices and the improper procurement policy of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
“Despite the central government's minimum support price of Rs.108.65 per coconut copra, it has now come down to Rs 80 during the DMK regime. Farmers' livelihoods have been severely affected due to the steep fall in prices” Nagaraj added.
When coconuts are added to the Pongal gift hamper, procurement for 2 crores 20 lakhs and 40 thousand ration card holders will be done, which would l protect the livelihood of the farmers.
Nagaraj also added that coconut kernel should be added to the school menu, along with mid-day meals, which will help boost immunity among students.