Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa is expected to produce 17.87 thousand tonnes of cashew nuts during 2025-26, according to the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare’s Second Advance Estimates, reflecting the state’s continued contribution to India’s cashew industry.
The production figures were shared in the Lok Sabha by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ramnath Thakur while replying to an unstarred question from MP Narayan Rane.
The Ministry stated that the Konkan belt, covering Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka, is projected to produce a combined 266.48 thousand tonnes of cashew during the year. Maharashtra is expected to account for the largest share at 182.79 thousand tonnes, followed by Karnataka with 65.82 thousand tonnes, while Goa’s estimated production stands at 17.87 thousand tonnes.
The government also clarified that horticulture production data is compiled state-wise, and the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare does not maintain separate statistics for individual regions or cashew by-products.
Responding to questions on government support for the sector, the Minister said several schemes are being implemented to improve cashew cultivation, boost productivity and encourage value addition.
Through the Directorate of Cashewnut and Cocoa Development (DCCD) in Kochi, programmes under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) are supporting activities such as expanding cultivation, introducing improved farming practices, increasing productivity and promoting modern technologies.
To strengthen post-harvest infrastructure, assistance is available for establishing or upgrading primary processing facilities used for drying, grading and basic processing of cashew. Eligible beneficiaries can receive financial support covering 35 per cent of the project cost, up to a ceiling of ₹12.25 lakh, under MIDH guidelines.
The Minister further informed Parliament that states can also seek assistance for cashew-related projects through the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) based on their specific requirements.
In addition, cashew processing units qualify for support under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), which offers 3 per cent interest subvention on eligible loans along with credit guarantee benefits, helping entrepreneurs invest in processing facilities and improve value addition within the sector.
