(a) the details of scientific study conducted on the various diseases affecting the coconut tree and the latest findings;
(b) the total amount allotted and spent so far on such study;
(c) the loss suffered by the farmers in terms of loss of nuts as well as trees so far;
(d) whether any lasting remedy has been found; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI HUKUMDEO NARAYAN YADAV)
(a) Scientific studies were conducted by Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Kasaragod on coconut diseases like root wilt, stem bleeding, leaf rot etc. Causal organisms have been identified and management practices implemented including the farmers plots.
(b) Out of Rs. 9.55 crores allotted Rs. 9.54 crores has been spent on the study.
(c) As per the survey conducted, about 900 million nuts and 50,000 trees were lost by the diseases.
(d) Management practices for the diseases have been evolved.
(e) The technology has been demonstrated on 210 farmers` plots. The results indicated that there is a definite improvement in coconut plantations.