PANAJI: The Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) will take up rejuvenation of 280 hectares of cashew plantations this year and aims to add another 1,500 hectares in the next two years, informed GFDC Chairperson Deviya Rane. The move comes as a response to Goa’s declining cashew productivity, which currently stands at just 430 kg per hectare, significantly lower than the national average of 750 kg per hectare.
Highlighting the urgent need to revive one of the State’s most culturally and economically significant crops, Rane said that cashew production has steadily reduced due to a decline in traditional agricultural practices and lack of technical know-how among farmers. “Goa’s cashew is unique in size and flavour. But without proper care, we risk losing this identity,” she said.
She said that of GFDC’s 6,500 hectares under cashew, much had been neglected for years. A rejuvenation programme was initiated in 2021 with 70 hectares. Since then, 450 hectares have been revived, and another 280 hectares are being added this year.
The Cashew Fest, organised by GFDC, which will take place from April 25 to 27, is part of a broader push to breathe new life into the sector. “This festival is about taking the journey of cashew, from the farm to the bottle, and giving a platform to those who are actually part of this legacy: farmers, self-help groups, bhatti workers and distillers,” Rane added.
The Corporation is also working to train farmers in better crop care and pest management, and is pushing for the benefits of Central schemes to reach Goan farmers. “We have written through the Horticulture Corporation to the Union Ministry to help bring in support schemes,” she said.
Pointing out regional disparities in production, she noted that talukas like Canacona, Quepem, Ponda, Pernem and Sattari produce more, while others lag due to a lack of awareness and training.
The Cashew Fest, now in its third edition, has also helped shed new light on Goa’s traditional liquor, feni. With a GI tag to its name, feni has begun finding export markets. “Once seen as the poor man’s drink, feni is now being exported by producers like Gurudatta Bhakta, while distilleries like Kajgar are getting global recognition,” she said.
Rane added that the festival will feature only cashew-based drinks, with a strict no to other liquors. “This is about celebrating our own, and taking cashew to the national and international stage,” she said.
