After the Horticulture Department appealed to multiplex owners to sell tender coconut water, the Hassan district administration has decided to promote it in a big way during the Mahamastakabhisheka that is held once in 12 years.
Those travelling to Shravanabelagola during the event in February 2018 will see specially designed huts alongside the national highways selling tender coconuts.
The district administration will be promoting it in the interests of coconut growers, who have suffered huge losses owing to drought in the last three years. According to a survey by the Horticulture Department, more than 14 lakh coconut trees have died in the district.
Deputy Commissioner Rohini Sindhuri told presspersons that the ways to promote tender coconut were being worked out. “With the specially designed huts on highways, travellers can take a break and sip coconut water. We are involving coconut growers’ associations and Karnataka State Coir Development Corporation,” she said. The administration will provide growers with advanced equipment to cut tender coconuts. “Maintaining hygiene is important. We will ensure that the seller gets advanced equipment with which he can easily cut the tender coconut and serve it,” she said. The administration is also contemplating a brand name to promote tender coconut products during Mahamastakabhisheka. “As of now, we have received a suggestion of ‘Kalpavruksha’ for the brand name. We are expecting more suggestions,” the DC said. The district administration has also decided to launch a website and an app to popularise tourist spots in Hassan. “A private company has come forward to bear the expenses. The website will have details of places where tourists can visit during the Mahamastakabhisheka,” the officer said.