Goa has long been labelled as “land of coconuts,” for the gracefully tall trees that adorned the landscape and coconuts that were found in abundance. These palms are intricately linked to Goan culture, economy, and spirituality. However, recent trends indicate a concerning decline in coconut production, prompting worries about the future of this emblematic aspect of Goa's environment and heritage.
Coconut trees have historically played a pivotal role in Goa's identity. Every component of the tree — from the fruit and fronds to the husk and trunk — has been utilized, making coconuts not merely a product but a vital cultural foundation. They play a significant role in religious ceremonies, festivals, and even events like inaugurations, where breaking of the coconut was symbolic of a promising beginning. Additionally, the renowned Goan curry features coconut as a key ingredient. From an economic standpoint, coconuts drive various industries, leading to the production of copra, coconut oil, coir, and even alcoholic beverages like Feni. Certain trees have become legendary, representing wealth and prosperity, often planted around homes and temples as protective symbols.
Despite their longstanding importance, the latest figures are worrying. The agriculture department reports a significant drop in coconut yield over the last three years. In the year 2022-23, production was around 16.31 crore nuts, which fell to about 15 crore nuts in 2024-25, marking a decrease of over 6%. Per hectare output has similarly declined by approximately 6.35%. The reasons attributed to this downturn ranged from pest infestations, old trees, labour shortages, elevated input costs to damage from animals. Farmers are harvesting coconuts prematurely, influenced by the high demand from tourists and attractive prices, which further reduces optimal yields.
The issue has escalated to a point where, to satisfy the festive demand during Ganesh Chaturthi, the State government has started importing one lakh coconuts from neighbouring Karnataka, with indications that more such imports will follow later. This move highlights the seriousness of local shortages and growing dependence on outside produce and puts a question-mark on the long-term viability of Goa’s coconut sector.
Should local production continue its downturn, Goa may face difficulty on the economic front because it is going to affect livelihoods, besides posing a threat to the cultural framework, let aside the ecological balance. The high costs of farming inputs and a decreasing interest among younger generations endanger the sustainability of coconut agriculture. Without proactive measures, this trend may worsen, leading to a further reduction in both the quantity and quality of coconut yields.
While immediate action is essential, rejuvenation programmes, enhanced pest management, and incentives for younger farmers could help in resurrecting the coconut produce. Advocating for sustainable harvesting methods and protecting groves from animal damage are equally vital. The agriculture department must get to the root of the problem and understand why the famed coconut of Goa is dying a slow death. Public education initiatives and government support may reignite local enthusiasm that in turn could trigger a revival of coconut farming, which is currently appears to be a costly proposition.
While importing coconuts provides short-term relief, it cannot replace the essential need for a robust local coconut sector, especially when the State is riding high on its Swayampurna wave. Safeguarding the coconut has to be an immediate priority.
