GUWAHATI, Sept 2 � The Coconut Development Board celebrated the World Coconut Day here today. Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi inaugurated the function at NEDFi Convention Centre.
Distribution of National Awards for the year 2010 was also organised on the occasion. The Board recognised 15 persons and institutions that have excelled in coconut farming, industry and other coconut related activities. The Chief Minister distributed the awards, a PIB press note stated.
Delivering the inaugural address, the Chief Minister said, there is lot of scope for coconut development in the State. If the Coconut Development Board extends all possible help, Assam will become the topmost coconut producer in India.
The farmer, who received award as the best farmer from this State, will be a role model in this State. If proper marketing facilities are provided to the farmers of the North Eastern States the cultivation of coconut can be increased.
SC Veerabhadrappa from Chithradurga district, Karnataka received the award for the best coconut farmer under National Best Farmer category. Pankaj Das of Hajo, Kamrup, received the award for the best coconut farmer from the North East.
Nilomoni Sen Deka, State Minister of Agriculture, Horticulture and Food Processing, presided over the function. Akon Bora, State Minister of Social Welfare, was the guest of honour.