Apprehending that the traditional toddy tapping occupation is on the verge of extinction, MLA Alina Saldanha has asked the State govt to create a scheme to financially assist toddy tappers.
“One of the oldest traditional occupations – Toddy tapping – is on the verge of extinction. There is hardly anybody willing to climb the coconut tree for plucking or toddy tapping. With this at a halt, there are many members of the community left without any source of earning. The govt should come up with a scheme or subsidy to help the old toddy tappers in distress,” said the BJP Cortalim MLA. The former Forest Minister suggested making available hybrid varieties of coconut trees to ensure toddy tapping continues in Goa.
