Team Herald
PONDA: Coconut prices in Goa have surged significantly over the past month, with rates increasing by Rs 10 to Rs 15 per coconut. While those with higher incomes may weather the price hike, daily wage earners and economically vulnerable sections are struggling to adapt. The essential role of coconuts in Goan kitchens leaves families with little alternative, forcing them to restrict their usage.
Local vendors at the Ponda Agricultural Market report that reduced imports from other states and delayed rainfall have exacerbated the situation. According to farmers, issues such as mite diseases and changing weather patterns may impact production.
For homemakers like Nayan Naik from Ponda, the price surge has disrupted household budgets. “The government needs to address the reasons behind reduced production, control prices, and encourage local youth to plant more coconut trees. Over-reliance on government jobs and increasing construction activity are leading to a decline in tree planting,” she said.
Coconut pluckers also cite challenges such as diseases like mite infestation, which have caused tree deaths. One coconut plucker alleged that the proliferation of mobile towers in rural areas might contribute to the issue, although this remains unproven.
Vishal Fadte, another local, suggested that importing coconuts from other States could be a viable solution to stabilise prices.
However, despite assurances from the Agriculture Department that December’s harvest would bring relief, prices remain high well into January.
Currently, the smallest coconuts are priced at Rs 25 (up from Rs 10-15), medium-sized ones at Rs 30-Rs 35 (previously Rs 25), and larger ones have reached Rs 40-45. This significant price hike continues to strain the budgets of ordinary citizens, with little respite in sight.
Stakeholders urge the government to take swift action, including addressing production challenges and facilitating imports, to provide relief to consumers and ensure the steady supply of this staple in Goan households.