Empowering Coconut Farmers through Innovation and Economic Assessment of TNAU Coconut Tonic

Abstract

The study aims to assess the economic impact of TNAU Coconut Tonic on coconut farming in Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu, in the 2023–24 period. A survey of 120 farmers (60 users and 60 non-users) was conducted by employing cost–benefit, break-even, partial budgeting, and regression analysis. Findings indicated that tonic users produced higher yields (24,254 nuts/ha) and net income (Rs. 2.10 lakh/ha) than non-users (19,092 nuts/ha; Rs. 1.30 lakh/ha). Though variable costs were marginally higher, users registered higher profitability with a benefit-cost ratio of 1.25, an IRR of 15.4%, and a reduced payback period of 17.7 years. Regression analysis further established a strong positive role of the tonic on yield, in addition to phosphorus and potassium fertilisers, while that of plantation age was negative. The Coconut tonic also enhanced yield and nut size and reduced the button shedding. The major constraints identified were poor knowledge of proper application and low uptake of tonic. The study concludes that TNAU Coconut Tonic is a profitable and efficient input that enhances productivity in coconut farming.