Why is it in the news?
- Recently, Goan Cashew (kernel)got the Geographical Indication (GI) tag where recognition is hailed as a great opportunity for the cashew industry in the state and “a milestone towards Swayampurna Goa mission”.
More about the Gaon Cashew
About
- Cashew was initially native to northeast Brazil in Latin America. The Portuguese introduced Goan Cashew to Goa in the 16th century, around 1570.
- Initially, it was planted for afforestation and soil conservation purposes. However, its economic value became evident a century later.
- Over time, cashew production evolved from a cottage industry to a significant contributor to Goa’s economy, primarily driven by demand from the United States.
Key Facts about Cashew
Importance in India
- Cashew is among India’s crucial plantation crops, playing a significant role in foreign exchange earnings.
- In Goa, it occupies the largest area among horticultural crops.
Suitable Soil and Climate
- Well-drained deep sandy loam soils are ideal for cashew cultivation.
- Cashew does not tolerate waterlogging, making heavy clay soils unsuitable.
- It thrives in various soil types, ranging from sandy to laterite.
Adaptation to Indian Coastal Regions
- Cashew is well-suited for Indian coastal areas with relative humidity between 60% to 95%; and annual precipitation ranging from 2000 to 3500 mm.
Temperature Requirements
- Cashew cultivation thrives in hot and humid conditions.
- Suitable temperatures range from 20°C to 38°C.
- Extremely low temperatures and frost are detrimental to cashew plantations.
Major Producing States (2021-2022)
- Maharashtra: Leading producer of cashew nuts.
- Followed by Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Meghalaya, and Gujarat.
Geographical Indication (GI)
· Geographical Indication (GI) is used to identify goods with unique characteristics originating from a specific geographical area. · The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, governs the registration and protection of GIs in India. · GI protection is aligned with the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). · GI covers agricultural, natural, and manufactured products, including handicrafts and industrial goods. · GI tags are initially valid for 10 years and can be renewed. · GI registration prohibits others from selling similar products under the same name. · It offers legal protection against unauthorized use and promotes exports. · GI tags assure customers of product authenticity. · The registration process involves application filing, scrutiny, examination, show cause notice, journal publication, opposition, and final registration. · Associations, producers, organizations, or authorities established by law can apply for GI registration. · Examples of GI-tagged products include Basmati rice, Darjeeling Tea, Chanderi Fabric, Mysore Silk, Kullu Shawl, Kangra Tea, Thanjavur Paintings, Allahabad Surkha, Farrukhabad Prints, Lucknow Zardozi, Kashmir Saffron, and Kashmir Walnut Wood Carving. |