The Goan cashew industry recently celebrated a significant achievement – the receipt of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for their kernels. This not only recognizes the unique specialty of Goan Cashew but also paves the way for a more flourishing trade in the state. This has been viewed as a great milestone in the ‘Swayampurna Goa mission’.
A Look at the History of Goan Cashew
Cashews, originally native to Northeast Brazil in Latin America, were introduced to Goa by the Portuguese in the 16th century around 1570. Initially used for purposes of afforestation and soil conservation, the economic worth of the crop became more apparent a century later. The cashew production started as a cottage industry and over time, became a main contributor to Goa’s economy. Its popularity soared mainly due to its demand in the US.
Key Facts about Cashew Production
Cashews are one of the most important plantation crops in India due to their contribution towards foreign exchange earnings. In the state of Goa, cashews occupy the largest area among horticultural crops.
Understanding the Ideal Conditions for Cashew Cultivation
For successful cultivation of cashew, certain specific soil and climatic conditions are required. A well-drained deep sandy loam soil is considered best for cashew growth while heavy clay soils are avoided as cashews cannot withstand water-logging. All soils from sandy to laterite are generally suited for this crop.
When it comes to environmental factors, cashews adapt very well to Indian coastal areas with relative humidity ranging between 60 to 95% and annual precipitation between 2000 to 3500 mm. Hot humid conditions with temperature ranging from 20 to 38 degree Celsius are suitable for cashew cultivation. Extremely low temperatures and frost are detrimental to cashew plantations.
Major Cashew Producing States of India
The National Horticulture Board lists Maharashtra as the leading producer of cashew nuts. This is followed by teams of farmers from Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Meghalaya, and Gujarat who contributed to cashew production in 2021-2022.
Geographical Indication Status
The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 was enacted in India to comply with obligations towards the World Trade Organization (WTO). Apart from Goan Cashew, various other goods like Banaras Brocades and Sarees, Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma, Tirupathi Laddu have also been accorded the ‘Geographical Indication’ status over the years.
This article has attempted to demystify the rather complex world of cashews, specifically Goan Cashew. From understanding the history of its introduction in Goa to discussing the specific soil and climatic conditions favorable for its growth, the aim has been to provide a comprehensive overview about this valuable crop. Further, it also highlights the milestones achieved by the industry, like the recent acquisition of the Geographical Indication tag.
