Neera likely to be dropped from Excise Act

Neera could be easily available in open market across Karnataka if the State government has its way. It has been planned to amend Karnataka Excise Act, 1965 to lift the restrictions on the sale of neera.

At the present time, neera (coconut flower sap) is classified as a ‘fermented’ item under the Excise Act and the proposal is to classify it as “unfermented” so that it there is no regulation on its tapping and sale. Currently, the tapping of neera is allowed only in Dakshina Kannada and in the Udupi districts.

Replying to queries from reporters here on Thursday,  Horticulture Minister Shamanur Shivashankarappa and Horticulture Department Principal Secretary M K Shankaralinge Gowda said the proposal has been sent to the Finance department for consideration.
“A bill seeking necessary amendments will be moved in the legislature once the Finance department gives it concurrence,” they said.

Encouraging policy

The government would also come out with a “Neera policy” to encourage coconut farmers to manufacture value-added products such as palm syrup, palm jaggery and palm sugar.  However, fermenting neera and turning it into toddy will not be allowed, sources added, speaking to Deccan Herald.

They said the Horticulture department would set up a Honey Park in Bhagamangala in Kodagu district to give a fillip to honey production. Kodagu.  The department will also set up flower auctioning centres at Tumkur and Davangere soon, they said.