New Delhi: September 2 is celebrated as World Coconut Day across all coconut-growing countries worldwide. This day marks the establishment of the International Coconut Community, an intergovernmental organisation of coconut-growing nations formed under the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) in 1969, with India as a founding member.
The primary goal of World Coconut Day is to promote and empower smallholder farmers and coconut industries in member countries by raising awareness about all coconut-related activities. Every year, a different theme is set for the day, and this year’s theme is “Coconut for a Circular Economy: Building Partnership for Maximum Value”.
World Coconut Day 2024: What is the theme for this year?
The theme of World Coconut Day 2024 is “Coconut for a Circular Economy: Building Partnership for Maximum Value.” This theme focuses on using coconuts sustainably and making the most of them. It also stresses the need for strong partnerships between farmers, producers, and industries to get the most out of coconuts. This benefits the environment and the people who rely on coconuts for their livelihood.
Types of well-known coconuts
Different kinds of coconuts exist worldwide, each with unique traits in size, shape, flavour, and use (such as drinking, cooking, or processing). Here are some well-known coconut types:
Tall Varieties
Tall coconut trees are known for their height, long lifespan, and higher yields. Some famous tall coconut varieties include:
West Coast Tall is common in India and is known for its high yield and adaptability to different climates. It produces medium to large-sized nuts with high oil content.
East Coast Tall is another popular variety in India. Due to its high copra content, it is often used for oil production.
Panama Tall is known for its disease resistance and is popular in regions like Central America and the Caribbean. It produces large nuts that are good for both water and copra.
Jamaican Tall is native to Jamaica, is known for its sweet water, and is often grown for ornamental purposes due to its tall height and strong growth.
Dwarf Varieties
Dwarf coconut trees are shorter, typically growing to a maximum height of around 10-15 meters. Some famous dwarf varieties include:
Malayan Dwarf is one of the most famous dwarf varieties globally. It is known for its disease resistance, particularly to Lethal Yellowing, and is often used in hybridisation.
Golden Malayan Dwarf is valued for its ornamental appeal and is commonly used for coconut water production due to its bright golden nuts.
Cameroon Red Dwarf is characterised by its red-orange nuts and primarily grown for its tender coconut water, which is sweeter and more refreshing than other varieties.
Hybrid Varieties
Hybrid coconuts are produced by crossing tall and dwarf varieties to combine the best qualities of both types. Some popular hybrid varieties include:
King Coconut is known for its bright orange colour and sweet, refreshing water. It is popular in Sri Lanka for drinking.
Chowghat Orange Dwarf x West Coast Tall is commonly grown in India and is known for its high yield and quality tender coconut water.
Kalpa Sree is popular in India and is known for its high copra content and resistance to root (wilt) disease.
Specialty Varieties
Macapuno is a unique type of coconut known for its jelly-like flesh, often used in desserts, ice creams, and culinary applications.
Fiji Dwarf is known for its hardiness and disease resistance and is favoured for its coconut water.
Green Thai Coconut is a popular coconut in Thailand. It is known for its sweet, aromatic coconut water and tender flesh. It is often used fresh or in cooking and desserts.
World Coconut Day is celebrated on September 2 to raise awareness about the importance and versatility of coconuts in sustainable development and economies. It emphasises the value of coconuts in promoting nutrition, health, and income for millions worldwide. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
