Coir Board, Headquarters, Functions & Importance

Coir Board is a statutory body established by the Government of India under the Coir Industry Act, 1953 for the organised development and promotion of the coir industry in India. Coir, commonly known as coconut fibre, is a natural and eco-friendly material obtained from the husk of coconuts. The Board works to improve coir production, support artisans and entrepreneurs, promote coir products in domestic and international markets, and encourage research and technological development.

The headquarters of the Coir Board is located at Coir House, M.G. Road, Kochi, Kerala. From its headquarters, the Board coordinates various activities related to the promotion, development, research, marketing, and export of coir and coir products across India.

Coir Board Objectives

The major objectives of the Coir Board are:

• To promote and develop the coir industry across India.
• To increase the production and quality of coir and coir products.
• To encourage the domestic use and consumption of coir products.
• To promote exports of coir and coir-based products.
• To support research and technological development in the coir sector.
• To provide skill development and training to coir workers and artisans.
• To encourage employment and income opportunities, especially for rural communities and women.
• To help coir producers access better markets and modern production technologies.

Coir Board Functions

The Coir Board performs several functions to strengthen the coir sector. Its activities cover research, training, technology, marketing and export promotion.

• Research & Development: Promotes research, innovation, and development of new coir products and technologies.
• Technology Development: Develops and promotes modern machinery and eco-friendly production techniques.
• Skill Development: Conducts training and skill development programmes for coir artisans and workers.
• Women Empowerment: Supports women through initiatives such as Mahila Coir Yojana.
• Marketing Promotion: Organises trade fairs, exhibitions, and promotional events for coir products.
• Export Promotion: Encourages international trade and exports of coir and coir products.
• Market Support: Helps artisans, producers, and entrepreneurs access domestic and international markets.
• Quality Improvement: Works to improve the quality, productivity, and competitiveness of coir products.

‹ ›

Major Coir Products

Coir is a natural, durable, and biodegradable fibre obtained from coconut husks and is used to make a wide range of traditional and modern products.

• Coir Mats and Matting: Used for flooring, entrance mats, and decorative purposes.
• Coir Ropes and Yarn: Used in ropes, nets, packaging, and other household products.
• Coir Carpets: Used as eco-friendly floor coverings in homes, offices, and commercial spaces.
• Coir Brushes: Used for cleaning and household applications.
• Coir Geotextiles: Used for soil erosion control, slope stabilisation, and land restoration.
• Coir Pith Products: Used in horticulture, gardening, and soil conditioning due to its moisture-retaining properties.
• Coir Handicrafts: Includes baskets, decorative items, toys, and other craft products.
• Coir Garden Products: Used for plant pots, grow bags, hanging baskets, and other gardening applications.

Coir Industry in India

India has a well-established coir industry, supported by its large coconut-growing areas and abundant availability of coconut husks. The industry provides employment and livelihood opportunities, particularly to rural communities and women. Kerala is a major centre of coir production, while several other coconut-producing states also contribute to the sector. The industry also supports exports, rural development, value addition, and sustainable use of agricultural waste.