Kerala asks Centre to lift curbs on coconut oil export

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government has asked the Centre to lift curbs on export of coconut oil and increase the support price of copra to Rs 5,800 from the present Rs 5,100 per quintal, a senior official said today.

The state also wanted coconut oil to be brought under the ambit of Vishesh Krishi Grameen Udyog Yojana and the benefits under it made available, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy told reporters after a cabinet meeting.

The demand was made in view of the difficulties faced by coconut farmers on account of price fall and drop in production under drought conditions, an official statement said.

The state also decided to press the Centre to allow the export of coconut oil through the south Indian ports in big packets removing the existing quantitative restrictions, it said.

Meanwhile, a sub-committee comprising secretaries of Planning, Power and Finance has been formed to draw up a detailed report on enhancing electricity generation in the state.