PANAJI
As Goa struggles to give a taste of real cashews to the visitors with markets flooded with exported cashews, the State government is hopeful to get a Geographical Indication (GI) tag to the local cashew nuts by next month.
According to the government, only after securing the GI tag, the authorities will be able to crack down on those selling nuts procured from outside as a Goan product and ensuring authentic cashew nut packets with GI tags are made available.
Speaking to media persons, Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) chairman Deviya Rane said that she has been continuously pursuing with the government (Department of Science and Technology) to expedite the proposal of the GI tag with the GI Registry.
“I am confident that by next month, our nuts will have GI recognition,” she said adding that the move will help the government to act against the deceptive marketing of exported cashews to pass them off as authentic Goan produce.
Rane stressed the importance of preserving the reputation of Goan cashews, especially now that Goa’s cashews, in their kernel form, have been granted the coveted GI tag. The kernel was awarded the GI tag in October 2023.
According to the World Intellectual Property Organization, “A geographical indication is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.”
Till date, Goa has got GI tag for a total of 10 items, including mancurad mango, Bebinca, Agassaim brinjal, cashew, seven-sided okra, Moira Banana, Harmal Chillies, Feni, Khola Chillies and Khajem.
The State has also prepared a list of 14 more items including Fish Curry, Mix Pav Bhaji, Coconut Feni, Khatkhate (Mix Vegetable Stew), Bangdyachi Uddamethi (mackerel curry), Kunbi saree, Korgut rice for GI tag.
