Hans News Service Tumakuru

Inwhat comes as a major boost for coconut growers, the famed Kalpataru region has witnessed a record surge in copra prices. At the Tiptur APMC, a fresh benchmark was set on Monday as copra prices touched an all-time high of ₹32,218 per quintal during the auction.

Traders confirmed that several lots were sold above ₹30,000, with premium quality copra fetching up to ₹31,860 per quintal. Interestingly, only 1,621 quintals of copra arrived at the market, significantly lower than usual volumes. This sharp drop in arrivals has been identified as the primary reason behind the steep price rise. The previous record stood at ₹31,606 per quintal, recorded on June 30 last year. With the latest surge, all earlier benchmarks have been surpassed, marking a historic moment for the region’s agricultural economy.

However, despite the encouraging price trend, farmers are facing a paradoxical situation. Many growers currently have little or no stock left to take advantage of the high rates. “Prices are very good, but most farmers have already sold their produce earlier. There is hardly any stock now,” said a local trader.

Typically, auctions at Tiptur APMC are held every Monday and Thursday, with arrivals often exceeding 3,000 quintals. But the latest auction saw barely half that quantity, reflecting a sharp supply crunch. Market experts attribute the reduced supply to multiple factors. Coconut production has declined this season, and a growing number of farmers are opting to sell tender coconuts instead of processing them into copra. The rising demand and better prices for tender coconut have made it a more attractive option for growers.