Government Expands Support for Toddy-Tapping Communities

Seeking to transform Andhra Pradesh’s traditional palm economy into a modern, value-driven industry, the state government has announced a series of initiatives aimed at boosting Neera production , expanding palm-based enterprises , and improving the livelihoods of thousands of toddy tappers across the state.

Speaking at the “Neera Promotion and Palm Products Development” programme held at the Pandirimamidi Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Rampachodavaram, Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra said the coalition government is committed to creating sustainable income opportunities for palm farmers and toddy-tapping communities through technology, branding, and market access.

A key proposal under consideration is the establishment of a State Toddy Board , which the government plans to pursue in coordination with the Centre. According to the minister, the board would provide a dedicated institutional framework for the welfare of toddy workers, promotion of palm products, and development of the sector as a viable rural industry.

Highlighting the growing global demand for natural and minimally processed foods, Ravindra said Andhra Pradesh aims to position Neera as a premium health beverage, similar to the success achieved by Araku Coffee . Extracted from palm trees before fermentation, Neera is rich in natural nutrients and is increasingly being recognised as a healthier alternative to sugar-laden drinks. The government believes branding and scientific processing can unlock new domestic and export markets for the product.

The minister noted that modern production facilities at Nidadavole and Pandirimamidi are helping scale up the manufacture of palm jaggery , which is gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers as a natural sweetener. He also described the government's decision to reserve 10 per cent of wine shop allocations for toddy tappers as a landmark welfare measure designed to strengthen economic security within the community.

Emphasising the importance of innovation, Ravindra said the Pandirimamidi Krishi Vigyan Kendra , established in 1986, has become a key centre for introducing modern technologies in palm-product processing and value addition.

Polavaram District Collector K. Dinesh Kumar announced that the district would launch a pilot Neera production project , making it one of the first focused efforts to commercially scale the beverage in the region. He urged consumers to adopt palm jaggery as an alternative to refined sugar and directed officials to conduct a comprehensive survey of palm trees across all mandals to identify growth opportunities for farmers.

The minister later inspected exhibition stalls displaying Neera, palm jaggery, palm fruit products, palm sprouts , and palm-leaf handicrafts , along with modern processing equipment. He instructed officials to focus on value-added marketing, product diversification, and supply-chain development to help double the incomes of palm farmers and toddy tappers.

The event was attended by MLA Miriyala Sirisha Devi , Excise Commissioner C.H. Sridhar , district officials, and chairpersons of various state corporations, reflecting the government's broader effort to turn the palm sector into a significant contributor to rural employment and economic growth.