Toddy Board to offer free toddy-tapping training with ₹10,000 monthly stipend

THE Kerala Toddy Industry Development Board is offering aspiring toddy tappers an opportunity to learn the traditional skill through a free training programme that comes with a monthly stipend of ₹10,000.

The initiative aims to address the acute shortage of skilled toddy tappers in Kerala and attract younger people to the traditional occupation.

According to reports published on October 18, 2026, the Kerala Toddy Workers Welfare Fund Board is planning a one-month training programme. Participants will receive a stipend of ₹10,000, along with insurance coverage, free accommodation and food.

The training will cover practical aspects of toddy tapping, workplace safety, hygiene and improved harvesting methods. The initiative also seeks to promote environmentally friendly practices and improve the quality of toddy production.

Interested candidates can submit applications to the district-level Welfare Fund Inspectors of the Kerala Toddy Workers Welfare Fund Board. The commencement of the programme will depend on the number of applications received.

The initiative comes amid a steep decline in the number of toddy tappers in Kerala, with their estimated strength falling from around 25,000 to 5,000 over the past 15 years.

The programme is expected to help attract a new generation of workers and revive an occupation closely associated with Kerala's traditional economy.