Neera Should be Tax Free For 3 Year Says KAU

30 September 2013
Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) has taken the first step towards commercialisation of Neera and Neera-based products with the launch of a training programme for Neera technicians at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Pilicode, recently.

The university is seeking a three-year tax holiday to popularise the non-alcoholic drink made from the unfermented sap produced by coconut flowers.

The first batch of 30 trainees, 10 each from Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, and Kasaragod districts, will acquire the skill and knowledge in Neera tapping and production from the two-week training programme. This core group will serve as master trainees to train technicians from across the State.

The KAU is scheduled to launch Keramrutham, its brand of Neera, on November 1. The university claims its technology is the safest method for arresting the fermentation of coconut inflorescence sap. A KAU spokesperson said Keramrutham would be promoted as a superior and more delicious health drink than tender coconut water. It contained 15 to 18 per cent of total sugars, 1.3 mg per 100 ml of Vitamin C, 90.5 ppm (parts per million) of potassium, 60 ppm of calcium, 15 ppm of phosphorous, 45 ppm of iron, and 9.5 ppm of sodium, which were appreciably higher than tender coconut water. The spokesperson said Keramrutham could be marketed as a natural sports drink as well.

Delivering the presidential address, Vice-Chancellor P. Rajendran said KAU proposed to request a tax holiday for three years on Neera to popularise the product. As a health or soft drink, Neera was likely to attract State VAT of around 12 per cent. Dr. Rajendran said a Government Order would be required to waive the tax.

Source– http://www.thehindu.com

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