Gujarat’s tender coconut production has surged by 20% in the last two years, reaching an annual output of approximately 26 crore coconuts, as per state horticulture data. This growth aligns with the expanding coconut cultivation in the state’s coastal districts, signaling a shift towards horticulture-focused farming. Coconut cultivation spans about 28,000 hectares in Gujarat, with significant contributions from districts like Gir Somnath, Junagadh, and Bhavnagar.
Official records indicate an average productivity of around 9.26 thousand tender coconuts per hectare during 2024-25, showcasing enhanced output in various cultivation regions. The rise in production is bolstered by government-supported horticulture initiatives, offering subsidies of up to 75% for coconut plantations and aiding farmers with agronomic practices and irrigation support.
Government nurseries supply coconut planting material, including high-yield and hybrid varieties, to support the growth of coconut cultivation. Despite the overall production increase, coconut growers in the coastal belt have encountered challenges due to rugose whitefly outbreaks. Efforts to control the pest have shown positive results, with farmers adopting innovative pest-control methods to improve productivity.
The state aims to expand coconut cultivation to 70,000 hectares in the future, focusing on value addition and processing to enhance market access and boost export opportunities. Continued support for coastal horticulture, coupled with improved pest management and irrigation infrastructure, is expected to drive further productivity growth and solidify Gujarat’s position in coconut production.
