The strategy proposed for coconut development is integrated development of holdings aimed at maximising income from unit area through better agro management practices and promotion of multi species cropping and farming systems.

The coconut development programme will be implemented in continuous areas called keragramam covering a minimum area of 250 ha, with the objective of increasing production and productivity through the activities such as replanting, integrated pests and disease management, integrated nutrient management, promotion of inter cultivation, improving irrigation facilities, promotion of value addition, ensuring availability of quality planting materials and employment generation. Application of lime, micro and secondary nutrients will be ensured for effective nutrient uptake. The Keragramam activities will be linked with the activities under Special Agriculture Zone for coconut in Kozhikkode as far as possible.

 During 2018-19, an amount of Rs.5000.00 lakh is provided for undertaking activities like cultural operations including Integrated Nutrient Management & Integrated Pest Management (INM & IPM), application of organic manure, distribution of climbing device, establishment of coconut nurseries, irrigation units etc. Operational cost to Krishibhavans for programme implementation including registration of samithy, trainings, meetings etc. is also included. The scheme will be implemented in selected panchayats. The institutional development at Panchayath level for convergence of various scheme implemented by Coconut Development Board (CDB), Local Self Government Institutions (LSGI), and the department of Agriculture will be supported additionally. An amount of Rs.5.00 lakh each will be provided for strengthening the activities of the Panchayat level Kera Apex Societies where minimum area under coconut in the panchayat is 250 ha. Model farm plans will be prepared and additional assistance will be ensured from the plan of LSGIs.

 It is proposed to promote scientific cultivation of high yielding dwarf and semi-tall varieties suited for tender coconut, culinary coconut and copra, replacing unproductive, senile and diseased palms in contiguous areas. The provision under the component will be utilized for establishing model farms of high yielding dwarf as well as hybrid coconut varieties. A model farm should have a minimum size of 0.20 ha.

An amount of Rs.200.00 lakh is set apart as ‘Innovation Fund’ for introducing new, ecofriendly and sustainable technologies aimed at improving coconut production and for undertaking ‘Coconut Year’ programmes on a project mode from the activities identified as part of coconut year programme including establishment of small scale value addition units, drip irrigation system, coconut farm schools. Out of this an amount of Rs.20.00 lakh will be used for organizing campaigns at block level to popularise the health benefits of coconut and its products including coconut oil and promote their use.