The Directorate of Cashew Research, established under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in Puttur, celebrated its 41st foundation day on Thursday.

Director of the institute, Dinakar Adiga, presented a brief overview of the institution’s journey, its achievements over the past year, and its future roadmap. He introduced details of the new cashew variety, “Nethra Samriddhi”, released this year, and highlighted other technological advancements in the cashew sector.

A.B. Patil, President of the Institution of Agricultural Technologists, Bengaluru, K.B. Hebbar, Director of ICAR’s Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Kasaragod; and Mamatha D.S. Gati, Chairperson of the Karnataka Cashew Development Corporation were present.

Mr. Patil delivered a special lecture on eco-friendly nutrient management. He said that healthy soil for all crops should be maintained using organic inputs. Cashew growers, he said, have ample opportunities to benefit from the value-added food industry and should become agri-entrepreneurs by availing themselves of government subsidies.

On the occasion, scientists who had published outstanding research papers were honoured. Several publications of the organisation, a video showcasing its activities, and “Cashew Connect”, an AI-based chatbot that provides information to cashew growers, were released.

Farmers and entrepreneurs interacted with resource persons during the event. They were informed about the facilities available through various departments and the officials they could contact for assistance.

Radhakrishna of Nitya Food Industry shared his experience of the support and guidance he received from the government and the Directorate of Cashew Research. He said there was considerable scope for young people to benefit from subsidies available under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana, a Union government scheme aimed at promoting the food processing industry.

Prasad Shetty from Sullia urged the government to include the cashew crop under the crop insurance scheme.