The Coconut Cultivation Board has taken steps to launch a special subsidy programme aimed at minimizing the impact of the prevailing dry weather conditions on coconut cultivation.

Chairman of the Coconut Cultivation Board, Dr. Sunimal Jayakody, said the programme would be implemented with an allocation of Rs. 2.5 billion, with the aim of increasing coconut production and protecting the existing harvest.

He said the subsidy programme is intended to encourage coconut growers, increase coconut yields and rehabilitate coconut lands.

Meanwhile, Dr. Jayakody noted that although the prevailing hot weather conditions have not affected coconut cultivation so far, the crop could be impacted if the El Niño conditions intensify in the coming period.

He added that the Coconut Cultivation Board is closely monitoring both the prevailing high temperatures and the possible intensification of El Niño conditions, and discussions are currently being held with relevant parties in this regard.

Under the subsidy programme, special attention will be given to coconut cultivations in districts including Gampaha, Kurunegala, Kuliyapitiya and Puttalam. The programme will also be implemented for coconut cultivations in other districts.

Accordingly, coconut growers will be provided with a subsidy of Rs. 50,000 per acre, for up to five acres, to establish water supply facilities on their coconut lands.

In addition, steps will be taken to provide Rs. 200 per coconut tree for water conservation purposes.

Dr. Jayakody also noted that coconut growers can obtain loans through the Kapruka Loan Scheme operated by the Coconut Cultivation Board.

He urged coconut growers to make themselves aware of the available assistance and take steps to obtain the relevant subsidies while protecting their cultivations and safeguarding the coconut harvest.

Meanwhile, he further revealed that the annual coconut harvest had increased by 24% during the first six months of this year.