Thiruvananthapuram  : The Coconut Development Board has invited applications for the ‘National Awards-2012’ under various categories.

The objective of the Scheme of National Awards is to recognize and promote excellence in coconut cultivation, innovative methods in coconut farming, product development, product improvement, quality improvement, product diversification and marketing, export and extension activities, an official release said today.

The award would be given under various categories including The Best Coconut Farmer (National level, South West Region, and East-North East Region),

The Best Coconut Processor (Conventional Coconut Products and Non-Conventional Coconut Products), The Best Research Worker (Product Development/New Applications and uses for Coconut/nutritional & biochemical findings, Machinery/Equipment Development), The Master Craftsman manufacturing Coconut based handicrafts (Large scale category, Small scale category), The Best Exporter of Coconut Products (Turnover above Rs 10 crore/year, Turnover upto Rs 10 crore/year, The Best Extension Worker in the field of Coconut Development), The Best Co-operative Society / NGO in the field of coconut development, The Best Palm Climber ( Climber using traditional methods, Climber using non traditional methods and Coconut climbers under FoCT programme of the Board), The Best Coconut Producer Society and The Best Coconut Processing Unit Managed by Women.