Assam : Assam is being developed as a model state for coconut production during 12th Plan period beginning on Sunday. As many as, hundred coconut processing units are planned to be set up in the state under Coconut Technology Mission during the period.

Taking advantage of the sufficient number of coconut production, the Coir Board has initiated a number of ambitious schemes for the development of the coir industry in the state.

The prospect of the coir industry is very high as Assam produces a total of 147 million coconuts every year. The state produces 9 thousand 130 nuts per hectare per year against the national average of 8 thousand 303.

According to experts, 80 tonnes of fiber could be extracted from 1 million coconuts. Hence, Assam can produce 11 thousand 760 metric tonnes of fiber per year.

Traditional items like durable ropes and twines, brooms, door mats along with technology based products including Geo-textile for erosion control and ornaments are being produced, using coir.

Coir waste can also be converted into organic manure which is required for horticulture and agriculture activities. The units to be grown up from the coir industry sector is expected to generate a large number of employment opportunities for skilled and un-skilled unemployed persons.