Why in the News?

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant hailed the recognition as a great opportunity for the cashew industry in the state and “a milestone towards the Swayampurna Goa mission”.

About Goan cashew:

• Cashew is one of the most important plantation crops in India, with significant cultivation in the state of Goa.
• Its introduction to India traces back to the 16th century (1570) when the Portuguese brought it from its native region in northeast Brazil, Latin America.
• Originally recognized for afforestation and soil conservation, cashews quickly gained prominence in Goa, occupying the largest area among horticultural crops.
• The climatic conditions conducive to its growth are well-suited to the Indian coastal areas, thriving under hot and humid circumstances.

Climatic Conditions:

• Soil and Climate: Well-drained deep sandy loam soils, ranging from sandy to laterite, prove to be ideal for cashew cultivation.
• Goa, known for its sandy loam, is a particularly favourable region for this crop.
• Adaptability: Cashew exhibits excellent adaptability to the coastal regions of India, thriving under temperatures ranging from 20 to 38 degrees Celsius.
• The relative humidity in the range of 60 to 95% is also conducive to its growth.
• Rainfall: Annual precipitation between 2000 to 3500mm supports the cultivation of cashews, ensuring optimal growth and development.
• Geographical Expansion: While traditionally associated with Goa, the cultivation of cashews is expanding to non-traditional areas in the plains of Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and some parts of the Northeast hill region.
• Cashew's journey from its introduction by the Portuguese to becoming a vital crop in Goan agriculture highlights its adaptability and significance in the diverse agro-climatic regions of India.

What is a Geographical Indication Tag?

• A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a distinctive emblem affixed to products originating from a specific geographical area, signifying unique qualities or a reputation inherently tied to that origin.
• Primarily employed for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts, and industrial items, the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in India aims to facilitate the registration and enhanced safeguarding of geographical indications associated with various goods.
• Under this act, the granted GI tag holds validity for a period of 10 years, with the provision for renewal upon expiration.