KOCHI: Machines have taken over human labor in many fields. Toddy tapping is one of the few remaining fields, but wait, we have a high tech machine for toddy tapping now. No need of that multiple techniques. No need to climb that tall coconut tree three times a day. After tapping the toddy can be collected via a tube. This machine is a brainchild of Charles Vijay Joseph, a young engineer from Aluva. The user will also get all the essential details regarding the tapping through a mobile phone application. Commercial production of each machine will cost around Rs 7000 to Rs 10,000.

The shortage in the number of laborers for toddy tapping was the motivation for Charles. He was behind the creation of this machine since 2017, leaving behind his job in the Middle East. He started a company at the start-up complex in Kinfra, ‘Nava Design and Innovation Pvt. Ltd.’. Charles had a few helping partners as well-his wife Neenulal, Vinu Krishnan, Sujith Soman, Anoop Sebastian, and Jithin Shaji. Sukumaran, a toddy tapper from Aluva, also helped. Kerala Start-up Mission and Bharat Petroleum granted funds. After experimenting on coconut trees, the first prototype was created in 2017 itself. The machine can do most of the work by itself, though it might need manual assistance to clear the way up. The machine is equipped with solar panels. Climate changes won’t affect this toddy tapper. Charles was able to get both Indian and international patent for his device and have already applied for patents at over 12 countries with coconut agriculture. This device will be put on display at Hard Tech Conclave scheduled to be held at Kinfra Park in Kalamassery on Friday and Saturday.

If the company is able to garner investments within one year, commercial production of this equipment will be started.