Adhra Pradesh Coir Industry Seeks Help from State, Central Governments

A dwindling workforce and a reluctance to embrace new technologies is costing the coir industry in North Andhra, with half of the 14 industries shutting shop in the last few years in Srikakulam and Vizianagaram districts, reports The Hindu on July 28.  The closure of these industries is expected to have direct impact on coconut farmers, who grow coconuts in 25,000 acres in the region.  
Although the coir industry is reaping modest profits in States like Tamil Nadu and Kerala, the industry is going through a turbulent patch in Andhra Pradesh.  Mongam Srinivasa Rao, State secretary of National Coir Federation’s chapter in the region said, the industry would be able to survive in the region only if the government extends its support in the form of power tariff subsidy and incentives for adoption of new technologies.
“Indian coir products enjoy a huge demand in the international market.  However, lack of adoption of new techniques in production and marketing skills have become a bane for the industry.  In this backdrop, we wanted to instill confidence among the entrepreneurs by holding meetings in all the districts of the State.  A little support from the government would help them concentrate on reviving their business.  It will also help provide employment to many people in rural areas,” said Srinivasa.