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Banana Farming: Source of Enhancing Income and Sustaining Livelihoods in Meloor Panchayath

Sreeni KR*

Banana is a widely perennial fruit crop grown in Meloor Panchayat due to high economical gain for small and marginal farmers throughout the year. Meloor is one of the largest producers of Banana in Thrissur District with an average of 2812 tons from an area of 75 hectares with average productivity of 30 to 35 tons per hectare. Moreover, 25 hectares were added to banana cultivation in Meloor Panchayat during Post Covid Period. 70 percentage farmers sell their bananas in Chalakudy market, 20 percentage in VFPCK and 10 percentage in Horticrop. The overall objective of the study is to examine economically feasibility of banana production and the sustainability of by-products. It also examines the major role played by cooperatives banks, insurance schemes and agriculture departments which helps to enhance farmer’s income and also create job opportunities. Agriculture and allied activities provide the main source of livelihood and income to 80 percentages of people in panchayath. The government should take all necessary measures and support the panchayat to start micronutrients, nutraceuticals (baby food), livestock feed, natural fibres, and bio-fertilizers units. As Cochin International Airport is 18 Km away panchayat has huge potential for export. The unemployment can be sorted out by supporting small and cottage industries sector for byproducts such as Chips, figs, flour, powder, banana pulp, food and infants, clarified banana juice.