India Remains World’s Largest Coconut Producer; Centre Unveils Promotion Scheme in Budget 2026–27

India has reaffirmed its position as the world’s largest coconut producer, accounting for 30.37% of global coconut output, while the Union Government has announced a new Coconut Promotion Scheme in the Budget for 2026–27 to boost production and improve productivity across major coconut-growing states.

According to data shared in the Lok Sabha, coconut cultivation worldwide spans nearly 12,390 thousand hectares, of which India alone accounts for around 2,165.20 thousand hectares. The country produces approximately 21,373.62 million coconuts every year, with an average productivity of about 9,871 nuts per hectare. The figures underline the crop’s major role in India’s agricultural economy and rural livelihoods.

Coconut farming continues to be a crucial source of income for millions across the country. Around 30 million people are estimated to depend on the sector for their livelihood, including nearly 10 million farmers.

To strengthen the sector further, the Government has announced a Coconut Promotion Scheme as part of the Union Budget 2026–27. The scheme is aimed at increasing output and enhancing farm productivity through targeted interventions. These include the replacement of old and unproductive coconut trees with new saplings, improved planting material, and higher-yielding varieties. The move is expected to enhance the competitiveness of coconut production in India’s major coconut-growing regions.

The initiative forms part of a broader allocation of ₹350 crore for high-value agriculture, covering coconut, cashew, and cocoa. However, state-wise and Union Territory-wise fund sanction and utilization details have not yet been finalized, as the scheme is still under formulation.

The information was provided by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha on March 17, 2026.

Reference: PIB