Coir Board: (Introduction, Constitution, Legal Framework, Functions, Schemes, Products, Services, Membership).

[YAGAY andSUN]

Introduction:

The Coir Board is a statutory body established by the Government of India under the Coir Board Act, 1953. It functions under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and is tasked with the development and promotion of the coir industry in India. The board plays a pivotal role in promoting the domestic and international trade of coir products, while also focusing on the welfare of coir workers.

Coir, also known as "coir fiber," is obtained from the outer husk of coconuts and is widely used for the production of various products like mats, ropes, and geotextiles. The Coir Board aims to enhance the quality, marketability, and production of coir products in India.

Constitution of the Coir Board:

The Coir Board is constituted under the Coir Board Act, 1953, with the following members:

1. Chairman: The Chairman is appointed by the Government of India and oversees the functioning of the Coir Board.
2. Members: The Coir Board consists of several members, including representatives from the central government, state governments, industry associations, and experts in the coir sector.
3. Secretary: The Secretary is the head of the Board’s Secretariat and is responsible for implementing the Board’s decisions and functions.
4. Executive Director: The Board has an Executive Director who manages day-to-day operations.

Legal Framework:

The Coir Board operates under the Coir Board Act, 1953, and is subject to the rules and regulations prescribed by the Government of India. The Act empowers the Board to:

• Promote the development of coir industries and improve the quality of coir products.
• Provide financial and technical assistance to coir manufacturers and entrepreneurs.
• Undertake research and development for the betterment of the industry.
• Market and promote coir products both domestically and internationally.

Functions of the Coir Board:

The Coir Board performs various functions to support the growth of the coir industry, such as:

1. Promotion of Coir Products: The Board encourages the production and marketing of coir products through various promotional and marketing activities.
2. Development of Coir Industry: It works to modernize the coir industry, improve productivity, and ensure better quality of coir products.
3. Training and Skill Development: The Board provides training and technical guidance to workers and entrepreneurs in coir-producing regions.
4. Research and Development: It funds and supports R&D efforts to improve coir product manufacturing and design.
5. Export Promotion: The Board helps exporters by providing market intelligence, organizing trade fairs, and supporting participation in international exhibitions.
6. Financing and Subsidy Schemes: The Board offers various financial schemes and subsidies to MSMEs in the coir sector.
7. Welfare of Coir Workers: The Board ensures the welfare of coir workers by offering assistance in terms of healthcare, insurance, and other worker welfare schemes.

Schemes of the Coir Board:

The Coir Board implements several schemes to support the industry:

1. Coir Vikas Yojana: A scheme aimed at enhancing the production capacity and technology of the coir industry.
2. Coir Udyami Yojana: Provides financial assistance for the establishment of small-scale coir industries, especially in rural areas.
3. Market Development Assistance Scheme: Offers financial support to exporters for the promotion of coir products in international markets.
4. Technology Upgradation Scheme: Supports coir industries in upgrading technology for increased efficiency and product quality.
5. Coir Processing Scheme: Assists entrepreneurs with setting up coir processing units, providing machinery and other necessary infrastructure.
6. Workers Welfare Fund: Focuses on the welfare of coir workers, including providing financial assistance for healthcare and other needs.

Products of the Coir Board:

The Coir Board is responsible for promoting a wide variety of coir products, such as:

1. Coir Mats: Used for floor mats, door mats, and decorative mats.
2. Coir Rugs: Used in homes and offices for flooring.
3. Coir Yarn: Made from coir fibers, it is used in ropes, cords, and other products.
4. Coir Pith: A by-product used as a soil conditioner in agriculture.
5. Coir Geotextiles: Used in civil engineering, especially for erosion control and reinforcement of roads.
6. Coir Brushes: Used in cleaning, industrial, and household applications.
7. Coir Pads and Cushions: Used for upholstery and other applications.

Services Offered by the Coir Board:

The Coir Board provides various services to support the industry and its stakeholders:

1. Financial Assistance: Through schemes like Coir Vikas Yojana and Coir Udyami Yojana, the Coir Board offers loans, subsidies, and financial support.
2. Training Programs: The Board runs training centers to provide technical and vocational training to coir workers, helping them develop their skills.
3. Export Promotion: The Coir Board supports exporters by providing assistance with market research, trade fairs, and global networking.
4. Technical Support: It provides technical guidance and consultancy to coir manufacturers and workers, helping them improve their production processes and quality.

Membership - Application, Fees, and Renewal Frequency:

The Coir Board offers membership to individuals, companies, and organizations involved in the coir industry. Here are the details:

1. Eligibility for Membership:
   • Manufacturers, exporters, coir industry associations, and government agencies working with the coir sector can apply for membership.
   • Both new entrants and established players in the coir industry are eligible to apply.
2. Application Process:
   • Interested applicants need to fill out an application form, available on the Coir Board's website or at their regional offices.
   • The form requires information about the applicant's business, products, and objectives.
   • Supporting documents such as business registration details, GST registration, and industry-related certifications are required.
3. Fees:
   • Membership fees may vary depending on the type of membership (individual, organization, exporter, etc.).
   • The fee structure is usually set by the Coir Board and is available on their official website or through their regional offices.
4. Renewal Frequency:
   • Membership typically needs to be renewed annually.
   • The renewal process involves submitting updated business details and payment of the renewal fee.

Website Link: http://coirboard.gov.in/

Conclusion:

The Coir Board plays a crucial role in the development of the coir industry in India. It serves as a facilitator for promoting coir products, supporting MSMEs, offering financial assistance, and ensuring the welfare of workers in the sector. The schemes and programs provided by the Board are instrumental in improving the quality, productivity, and market reach of coir products, both domestically and internationally.

Given the significant potential for coir-based industries in sustainable products, there is ample scope for further growth and diversification. The Coir Board continues to support the sector through its various initiatives, helping it thrive in a competitive global market while also improving the livelihoods of workers in the coir industry.