KOZHIKODE: Lungi-clad, weary-looking coconut pluckers are set to be given an image makeover by the Coconut Development Board (CDB).‘Friends of Coconut Tree’, a group of men dressed up in uniform T-shirts and short trousers, will soon be at your service to pluck the nuts, clean the crown of the tree and detect diseases. In short, pluckers will turn to professional plant protectors.According to CDB chairman T K Jose, the project aims at a total makeover of coconut pluckers in the state.“Elevation of status is the only solution to sustain this profession in the state where farmers are in dire need of coconut pluckers. Just take the case of carpenters. They have undergone a massive image shift. A similar makeover can attract people again to this profession and can, thereby, tackle the acute shortage of labourers to certain extent,” he said.The plan is to mobilise those interested people in cooperation with various farmers’ organisations, youth clubs and associations, community development societies under Kudumbasree and the like.The CDB aims to train as many as 5,000 people this year and the registration for training will begin next week onwards. The training will commence once the heavy rains cease in the state.“Only a collective approach can resolve this problem.Various organisations and associations in each district should take the initiative to bring people for the training.Those above the age of 18 and up to 40 are welcome.We expect at least 30 percent participation of women in the programme,” Jose said.As per the availability of people, groups of trained men will be formed in the block panchayat level. “They will have a common dress code, preferably T-shirts with the name ‘Friends of Tree’ printed on them. Each group will have a motorcycle, a plucking machine and a mobile phone.“As per the plan, training and machines will be given free. Apart from training in using the available plucking machinery, the coconut pluckers will be taught to detect any disease or pests affecting the tree.“Farmers can immediately contact the agriculture officers concerned for necessary preventive action,” Jose said.The CDB would soon submit a detailed proposal to the state government seeking funds so that subsidy can be given to trained people to buy motor cycles and other equipment, he added.
Comments
0 comment