CDB Launches Call Centre: Coconut Tree Climbing Services a Phone Call Away

Addressing the persistent issue of labor shortages in the coconut farming sector, the Coconut Development Board (CDB) has introduced an innovative solution in Kerala. Now, coconut growers can access skilled coconut tree climbers and related services through a dedicated call centre established in Kochi. This initiative, named ‘Friends of Coconut Tree’ (FoCT), aims to assist farmers in essential activities like plant protection, harvesting, and other field operations associated with coconut cultivation.

Despite being an iconic symbol of the state, many farmers have abandoned coconut cultivation due to various challenges, including the scarcity of labor, diseases, pests, and low market prices. The call centre, equipped with a directory of approximately 700 coconut tree climbers across Kerala, intends to bridge this gap.

Farmers, agricultural institutions, and officials from the Agriculture Department can now find reliable solutions to their problems related to coconut cultivation. By offering readily available assistance, the CDB hopes to encourage more individuals to engage in coconut farming. Climbing coconut trees involves considerable risk, which led many to avoid this profession, creating a crisis in the sector. To address this, the CDB established FoCT, providing training to individuals and making their services accessible through this call centre.

Additionally, the CDB plans to launch similar call centres in traditional coconut-growing states such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka through its Unit Offices. A total of 1552 FoCTs have registered for this initiative, and their services will be accessible at the Block Grama Panchayat level in respective districts. Coconut farmers can avail services related to coconut cultivation, including climbing, plant protection, harvesting, seed nut procurement, and nursery management, through this call centre.

For more information, interested parties can contact the CDB call centre at 0484–2377266 (Extension: 137). This initiative is expected to rejuvenate the coconut farming industry and support farmers in overcoming challenges associated with their profession.

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