Action plan for promotion of palm based products in Andhra Pradesh

Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra inspects palm based products at Krishi Vignan Kendra in Pandirimamidi in Polavaram district on Tuesday.

Andhra Pradesh Minister for Mines, Geology and Excise Kollu Ravindra on Tuesday announced that the state government will prepare an action plan to promote palm-based products, particularly Neera and palm jaggery, to improve the livelihood of palm farmers and growers.

Speaking at the Neera Promotion and Palm Products Development program at Pandirimamidi Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Mr. Ravindra said the government would seek the Centre’s support for setting up the Palm Board. He said efforts are underway to promote palm cultivation, including in mangrove areas, while promoting value-added products such as Neera and palm jaggery.

Mr. Ravindra said the government’s aim was to build Neera as a recognized brand on the ranks of Araku coffee through awareness campaigns highlighting its nutritional benefits. He noted that while the traditional production of palm jaggery continued at the Nidadavolu Horticulture Research Centre, the Pandirimamidi center adopted modern technology.

Polavaram District Collector K. Dinesh Kumar said the district administration is implementing a pilot project for Neera production and has directed officials to survey palm trees across all mandals and promote the value-added products among farmers.

Rampachodavaram MLA Miriyala Sirisha Devi emphasized the need to organize workshops for palm growers, while Vice Chancellor of Horticultural University Dhanunjaya highlighted the economic potential of palm products.

The minister later inspected exhibition stands and processing units and directed officials to expand palm cultivation, enhance value addition and create greater awareness about the health benefits of palm-based products.

Published – 7 Jul 2026 19:02 IST