Replying to questions, she said dumping of coir products from neighbouring countries would have a disastrous impact on the industry in the state, which was already facing a crisis.

She said the Coir Board would come out with diversified product in accordance with the demand in the global market. Geo-textiles, a coir-based product used for preventing soil erosion, would also be popularised. The Konkan Railway and Arunachal Pradesh had already successfully introduced geo-textiles in several areas.

During the last fiscal, coir products worth Rs 22 crores were sold in the markets in India and abroad. Steps would be taken to establish more showrooms, besides the existing 100-odd showrooms in various parts of thecountry.

Eco-coir villages would be set up in the state to produce diversified products from coconut pith. A sum of Rs 1.25 crores had been allocated in the budget for the purpose, she added.

The minister said a sum of Rs 88.12 crores was spent during the last three years for setting up of new units and modernisation of existing ones.