Bhubaneswar: Odisha has significant potential for coconut cultivation, particularly in its central and western regions, and sustainable farming can generate higher returns for farmers, said Dr Satya Tapas, founder of Cocoter Farm, at the third edition of the Earth Again Conference 2026 on Saturday.

Speaking at a special session on ‘The Green Shift’ under the Green Economy/Jobs segment at the conference, organised by Sambad and Ama Odisha at Utkal University, Tapas said efforts had already begun to promote coconut cultivation in central and western Odisha.

He said Odisha's favourable rainfall conditions provide an advantage for horticulture at a time when several other parts of the country are facing rainfall deficits and drought-like conditions.

“Coconut cultivation, which has been successful in southern India, can also be successfully undertaken in western and central Odisha,” Tapas said, noting that work in this direction had been continuing in the state for the past eight years.

He also pointed to the growing demand for coconuts in the country, saying prices had risen from around Rs 70-80 to more than Rs 100 in some markets.

According to Tapas, while several states are witnessing water stress, Odisha has received adequate rainfall this year, creating an opportunity to expand horticulture-based farming.

He emphasised the need to conserve rainwater, including water received from low-pressure systems, and use it to transform low-lying agricultural land into profitable and sustainable farming models.

Tapas also called for greater focus on sustainable agriculture alongside mining and industrial development in Odisha.

He said the state should make use of its natural advantages to develop green economic opportunities, create rural employment and promote farming models that can remain economically viable while responding to changing climate conditions.