Insurance cover likely to revive coconut farming in Canacona
HERALD CORRESPONDENT
CANACONA, APRIL 2
Central government’s decision to extend insurance coverage to coconut palms is likely to rejuvenate coconut farming in Canacona taluka.
According to sources, Central government has recently launched coconut palm insurance scheme in Goa on pilot basis. The scheme will be reportedly in operation initially for two years, that is, until 2011, and if proved successful is likely to be extended to other states and for further period.
A fully grown palm tree is assured insurance returns of Rs 1,150, while the younger palm trees are assured returns of Rs 600 per palm at an insurance premium per palm for the fully grown palm tree pegged at Rs 6.35 and younger lots at Rs 4.69, respectively.
Palm trees in the age group of 4-15 years are designed as one group, while 16-60 years makes up for the other group, added sources.
Interestingly, 50% of the premium will be borne by Coconut Development Board, while 25% each will be borne by State government and the beneficiary, respectively.
However, sources further informed that interested palm growers will be asked to pay just Re 1 per palm as the remaining share deemed to be paid by beneficiary will be paid by Zuari Agro Chemicals Ltd.
The scheme is likely to bring further boost to various sections of coconut growers who at times are forced to face natural hazards sometimes destroying entire coconut grooves.
“This scheme may also help to bring in more and more farmlands, which are presently lying unused under coconut plantations, helping to rejuvenate coconut grooves which are hallmark of coastal regions identity,” informed one Savio, who reportedly suffered severe damages to his coconut grooves during Canacona floods.
Goa Bhagyatdar Society will assist its members, while other coconut growers who are not registered with that society may approach Zonal Agriculture Office, Chaudi, to reap the benefits of this scheme, informed a source.
Insurance cover likely to revive coconut farming in Canacona
CANACONA, APRIL 2 Central government's decision to extend insurance coverage to coconut palms is likely to rejuvenate coconut farming in Canacona taluka.
