Women trained in coconut tree climbing ready to break taboo

Kakkanad: Women in Ernakulam are all set to break the male dominated coconut tree climbing. Fifty nine women have completed training in machine-aided coconut tree climbing under the Mahila Kissan Shaktiyojana project. The training sessions were conducted by the Koovapadi block panchayat. The participants were selected from six village panchayats.

Many women who were initially reluctant to climb up the coconut trees are now experts in it. The block panchayat had made all the necessary arrangements including the coconut tree climbing machines. Bank accounts would be opened after forming labour units. The remuneration would be transferred through these bank accounts. VEOs of the panchayat have been entrusted to coordinate the project.

The labour units are required to sign a contract with the panchayat secretary before venturing into this profession. It is hoped that more women will opt for this career if they are offered better wages. The women who have already completed their training will be offering training sessions for the new batches.