Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre announced on Sunday that Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts hold strong potential for cashew cultivation. Quality saplings will be raised through the Karnataka State Cashew Development Corporation (KCDC) and supplied to farmers. The government will provide a grant of Rs 1 crore to develop quality grafted saplings.
Inaugurating the two-day Cashew Fair organized by KCDC at Kadri Park, Khandre noted that many farmers abandoned commercial cashew cultivation after the endosulfan tragedy, leaving processing industries dependent on imports, particularly from African countries. Efforts will be made to revive cultivation and restore the sector. "The state will be made self-reliant in cashew production by reducing imports and increasing quality output," he said.
Khandre also mentioned that cashew cultivation is being promoted in Kalyana Karnataka, including Kalaburagi, with an action plan and support from the government and forest department.
Stressing ecological balance, Khandre highlighted that the biodiversity-rich Western Ghats play a key role in rainfall. "It is everyone's responsibility to conserve the Ghats," he said.
He added that 11 crore saplings had been planted and nurtured across the state in three years to boost green cover, alongside phased removal of large-scale forest encroachments. Citing climate change, he noted that rainfall patterns have shifted, with intense spells causing crop damage.
Mangaluru City South MLA D Vedavyas Kamath sought a special package, pointing out that domestic production meets demand for only about 1.5 months. He suggested using vacant forest land for plantations.
Twelve progressive farmers were felicitated at the event. Painting and rangoli competitions were also organized as part of the fair. KSCDC chairperson Mamatha DS Gatti, elected representatives, and officials were present.
