CM seeks detailed report on coir sector

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy has sought a detailed report on the development of the coir industry and has directed the officials to also consider approaching the Centre for assistance.

Kumaraswamy held talks with the Karnataka State Coir Development Board and the Karnataka State Coir Federation on Friday, where he took stock of the state’s coir industry.

Coir is grown widely in at least 10 districts. The chief minister noted that coir was available in abundance leaving much scope for improvement. He also pointed out that coir products were eco-friendly and could provide income for farmers. Kumaraswamy also opined that ample jobs may be created in the rural areas, especially for women.

Kumaraswamy asked officials to consider job creation, training, market expansion, the functioning of the coir sector in other states, infrastructure requirement, among other aspects, while submitting a detailed proposal.

The chief minister was informed that the Coir Board and the Federation manufactured coir mats, beds, pillows, desks and tables. Coir can also be used in road construction, road embankment, conservation of water bodies and coir can be used for projects taken up by the departments of Public Works, Forest, Water Resources, Agriculture and Horticulture.

Kumaraswamy said he would convene a separate meeting to discuss how coir products can be utilised.