87

CHAPTER V
CASHEW CULTIVATION

5.1 Introduction
Cashewnut (Anacardium Occidentale L.) is an important tropical
tree crops. It is one of the major export earning crops which accounts
nearly Rs. 2515 crores contributing about 1.5 per cent of the total
Indian exports. It ranks second in international trade amongst the
major edible nuts after Vietnam. During the past two decades it gained
the status of horticulture crop. India has the distinction of being the
worlds largest producer of cashewnut.
The main fruit growing states in India are Maharashtra, Andhra
Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Orissa and West Bengal. The fruit
cultivation area in India during 2004-05 was 49.64 lakh hectares with
an annual production of 49295 thousands metric tones of fruits. The
cashew cultivation area in India was 8.55 lakh hectares with an annual
production of 5.73 lakh metric tones of raw cashew nuts.
Maharashtra is a much advanced state for horticulture which
occupies large area (13.46 lakh hectares) under fruit crops. State
constitutes 164000 hectares area under cashew that covers 19.20 per
cent of total area under cashew.
The Konkan region of Maharashtra comprising of Thane, Raigad,
Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts is the major track of cashew
cultivation in the state. This chapter deals with the origin of cashew,
importance, area, production and productivity, perspectives of cashew
cultivation in South Konkan.

5.2 Origin and Distribution

The cashew is a native of tropical America from Mexico to Peru
and Brazil and also of the West Indies. It was one of the first fruit trees
 88

from the New World to be widely distributed throughout the tropics by

the early Portuguese and Spanish adventurers. It was introduced in
India from Brazil by the Portuguese in the 16th century and it probably
reached the East African coast and Malaya about the same time. It has
become naturalized in many tropical countries, particularly in coastal
areas. The different names of cashew in Indian languages are derived
from the Portuguese name caju which in turn originated from Acaju,
the name given to cashew by the Tapi Indians of Brazil (Bal, 2006). It is
called Parangi and or Portuguese nut in Kerala (Singh, 1996).
Other major cashewnut producing countries are Vietnam,
Mozambique, Tanzania, Brazil, Kenya and Madagaskar. In India the
chief producing areas are Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala,
Maharashtra, Orissa, Tamilnadu, West Bengal, Tripura and
Pondicherry.

5.3 Importance of Cashew

All parts of cashew tree are important. Leaves contain about 23
per cent tannin which is used in tanning for dyeing fishing nets in
study region. Young leaves are sometimes used for diarrhea and piles,
also as tooth powder. Older and dry leaves form good mulch, when
decomposed, serves as good manure.
The bark contains high percentage of tannin (9-12 per cent)
which may be used for tanning, colouring or marking ink. A yellow
cashew gum is found on the bark of the tree, which is obnoxious to
insects.
The fleshy stem is the source of refreshing beverages. A type of
varnish can be produced from the fleshy stem.
The reddish-brown wood is light which is used for packing cases,
house posts, fencing poles, building boats and wood is used as charcoal.
 89

Cashew apple (Plate 5.1) is famous for its high ascorbic acid
content (vitamin - c). It contains about 260 mg/kg. It is useful for
digestion. Various products can be made from the apples, such as fruit
juice, syrup canned fruit, candied fruit, pickles, jam, jelly, chutney,
alcoholic drink, wine, spirit, alcohol and vinegar. Fenny (wine) is
commonly prepared from cashew apple which is famous in Goa. In the
study region the cashew apples are sometimes used as animal feed.
Cashew liquor is prepared from apple which is used to treat
worm, sickness, cold, flue, toothache, fresh wounds and cuts, cramps
due to chilly weather, mascular pain, low blood pressure, loss of sleep
for aged people, cholera and diarrhea.
Table 5.1
Composition of Cashew Apple and Kernel
Cashew Apple
Sr. (proportion in per Cashew Kernel
Content
No. cent or mg / 100 (in percentage)
grams)
1 Moisture 87.5 per cent 5.9 per cent
2 Carbohydrate 11.6 per cent 22.0 per cent
3 Protein 0.2 per cent 21.0 per cent
4 Fat 0.1 per cent 47.0 per cent
5 Tannic acid 0.5 mg /100gm --
6 Minerals 0.2 per cent --
7 Carotine 0.09 --
8 Vitamin C 0.26 mg /100gm --
9 Calcium 0.01 mg /100gm 0.55 mg /100gm
10 Phosphorus 0.01 mg /100gm 0.45 mg /100gm
11 Iron (mg /100gm) 0.2 mg /100gm 5.0 mg /100gm
Source: Mandal, R. C. (2000): Cashew, Production and Processing
Technology, Published by AGROBIOS, India, P. 129.
 90

Cashew kernels are rich source of protein (21 per cent), fat (47
per cent). Table 5.1 indicates the composition of cashew kernel. It has a
mild and pleasant taste, a delicious as well as delicate flavour having
high moisture value. It is an ideal appetizing snack and a complete food
in harmony with a modern diet. Roasting of kernels increases
characteristic aroma and improves its texture. It is widely used in
confectionary industry for flavouring in cakes, sweet meats, vegetable
dishes and chocolates.
Cashew kernel oil is extracted from the kernel residues, 40 per cent
oil can be obtained which is light-yellow in colour, sweetish, odourless,
non-desiccative, and rich in unsaturated fatty acids. It is edible oil.
The kernel oil can be used in the treatment of leprosy, warts, worms,
ulcers etc. (Mandal, 2000). It can be substituted for iodine. Kernel cake
is residue from peeled kernels, which is used for producing a butter
called 'Cashew Kernel Butter.'
Cashewnut shell liquid (CNSL) is highly cabstic-brown in colour
and indelible. Its role is probably to afford the fruit some natural
protection against insects. CNSL consists of two highly reactive
phenolic compounds i.e. anacardic acid (90 per cent) and cardol (10 per
cent). Cardol is used in colouring fish nets, painting furniture, books
and other stationery to prevent the attack of insects especially the
silver fish. It is also used as external application for leprosy, ring worm
etc. Cashew testa (skin of kernel) is a valuable by product of cashew
industry which contains about 40 per cent tannin. Cashew is a good
crop for hilly, varkas soil.

5.4 Cashew Cultivation in India

Cashew is a native of North-east Brazil and its area of origin
seems to have been the state of ceara where the tree is found to this
day in large natural groves. Its diffusion in Asia and Africa is due to
 91

the Portuguese in the first half of the 16th century (Agnolioni and
Guilians, 1977). It is reported that cashew nut was introduced in the
Malabar Coast of India in the 16th century by the Portuguese. The
Malabar Coast probably served as a locus of dispersal to other centers
in India. Cashew is considered as a waste land crop grown for a
forestation and soil conservation of hilly area purposes. Cashew nut is
grown in Kerala. Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa,
Goa, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur,
Meghalaya, Tripura and Pondicherry.

Table 5.2
India: Area and Production of Cashew
(Area in 000 Ha, Production in 000 Tonnes)

Year Area Production Year Area Production

1960-61 176 111 1997-98 675 360
1970-71 303 127 1998-99 706 460
1980-81 464 185 1999-00 686 500
1990-91 532 295 2000-01 720 450
1991-92 534 305 2001-02 750 470
1992-93 560 349 2002-03 770 500
1993-94 565 348 2003-04 780 535
1994-95 577 322 2004-05 820 544
1995-96 635 418 2005-06 837 573
1996-97 659 430 2006-07 854 620
Source: 1) National Research Centre for Cashew, Puttur, Karnataka (2007).
2) Directorate of Cashewnut and Coca Development, Cochin, Kerala
 92

In 1960-61 there was 176 thousand hectares area under this crop
in the country having 111 thousand tonnes production (Table 5.2) and
in 2006-07, it was 854 and 620 respectively .During the period 1960-61
to 2006-07, the trend indicates rapid increase (0.855 million ha) in area
under cashew in India, where as production has also increased in equal
proportion. This is due to strong research support by various cashew
research institutes in India through varietals improvement, E.G.S., use
of pesticides and finance aid / loan facility to cashew cultivators
through various government support agencies.
Cashew occupies an area of 923 thousand hectares (Table 5.3)
and 613 thousand metric tone productions in the country. Kerala,
Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Orissa are
the major states in cultivated area under cashew. Andhra Pradesh (183
thousand hectares) ranks first followed by Maharashtra (174 thousand
hectares) in area under cashew.
Table: 5.3
India: State wise Area and Production of Cashewnut
2009-10
States Area Production
in '000 Ha in '000 MT
Kerala 72 66
Karnataka 118 53
Goa 55 26
Maharashtra 175 198
Tamil Nadu 133 60
Andhra Pradesh 183 99
Orissa 143 84
West Bengal 11 10
Others 33 17
Total 923 613
Source: http://dacnet.nic.in/cashewcocoa/stat.htm#stat
 93

Although Maharashtra shares only 19 per cent of area under

cashew cultivation, it ranks first in India by producing one third of the
total cashewnut production (Table 5.3). Other important states in
cashewnut production are Andhra Pradesh, Orissa and Kerala.

5.4.1 Improved Varieties of Cashew in India

Selection of suitable cashew varieties for the specific region and
appropriate package of practices determines the final yield. More than
30 varieties which are having exportable grade of cashew kernels are
released from different research institutes in India (Table 5.4).
Table 5.4
Major Varieties of Cashew nut in India
Sr.
State Varieties
No.
1 Andhra Pradesh BPP 1, BPP 2, BPP 3, BPP 4, BPP 4, BPP 5,
BPP 6, EPM 9/8, TNo. 39, T No. 1, T No. 56,
m44/3 BPP 10, BPP 11
2 Karnataka Ullal-1, Ullal-2, Ullal-3, Ullal-4, UN-50
NRCC1, NRCC3, Selection -1, selection-2,
Chintamani-1
3 Kerala Anakkayam-1, BLA 39-4, K30.1 K-22-1,
NDR-2-1, BLA-139-1 BLA-273-1, M-25/1,
M262-2, M3/4, Madakkathara-1,
Madakkathara-2, Dhana, Priyanka.
4 Maharashtra Vengurla-1 Vengurla-2
Vengurla-3 Vengurla-4
Vengurla-5 Vengurla-6
Vengurla-7 Vengurla-8
5 Orissa Bhubaneshvar-1, WBDC - 1
6 West Bengal Jhargram -1
 94

7 Tamil Nadu VRI - 1 VRI - 2

VRI - 3 BRI 1
8 Madhya T No. 40
Pradesh
Source: Bose, T. K. Mitra, S. K. et al. (Ed) (1990): Tropical Horticulture, vol. 1. Naya
Prakash, Calcutta
http://www.nrccashew.org

The several varieties of cashew have been released so for by the

National Research Center as well as several agricultural universities.
Most of the varieties have a mean yield of 8-10 kg per tree which gives
over one tone per hectare. In view of the export potential however,
cultivation is recommended only for such varieties that have a kernel
grade of W-210 to W-240. Major varieties of cashewnut are reported in
Table 5.2. VR1 and VR2 is the improved cashew varieties (Tamil Nadu
state) considered as ideal for planting in the coastal belt. It will insure
a productivity of at least 1000 kg nuts per hectare. In Andhra Pradesh
BPP10 and BPP 11 are the improved varieties recommended by the
Indian Council of Agriculture Research in recent past. Raghav and
Damodar, these are suitable verities for Kerala state, developed by
Cashew Research Station (CRS), under Kerala Agricultural University.
In Karnataka Ullal- based Cashew Research Station, functioning under
the Bangalkot- based University of Horticultural Sciences is promoting
a better yielding (21.4kg / plant) variety of cashew, NDR 1-2.The groves
of Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) have recently released two
high yielding and early flowering cashew varieties (Priyanka and
Amruta) for commercial cultivation.
 95

5.4.2 Cashew Research Centers in India

Cashewnut varieties are released from different cashew research
centers in India (Fig. 5.1).
1. Cashewnut Research Station, Kerala.
2. Central Cashewnut Research Station, Mangalore (Karnataka).
3. Cashewnut Research Station, Ullal (Karnataka).
4. Cashewnut Research Station, Bapatla (Andhra Pradesh).
5. Cashewnut Research Station, Daragaon (Assam).
6. Cashewnut Research Station, Vrindhachalam (Tamil Nadu).
7. National Research centre for Cashewnut, Puttar (Karnataka).
8. Cashewnut Research Station, Kumbravand, Jagadalpur (Madhya
Pradesh).
9. Regional fruit Research Centre, Vengurla, (Maharashtra).

5.5 Cashew Cultivation in Maharashtra

In India, Maharashtra ranks 2nd in cultivated area under cashew.
In 1975-76 the cultivated area under cashew in Maharashtra was 8900
hectares, which has now crossed, a level of 90000 hectares. Ratnagiri
and Sindhudurg are the leading districts regarding cultivated area
under cashew followed by Raigad, Thane and Kolhapur.
Cashew is a one of traditional crops of Maharashtra. The
Department of soil conservation of the state until early 60s promoted
cashew development by the way of distributing seeds and seedlings and
meager financial support. From the middle of 60s a scheme for
development of cashew became a part of land development and soil
conservation cum horticulture development scheme of the Department
of Agriculture. Towards the end of sixth plan the development measure
of cashew become a part of the activity of horticultural development.
The forest department of state also continued their efforts to afforest
the denuded forest land with cashew as well as soil conservation
 96

measure. A boost for development of cashew was attained with

introduction of horticultural development programme linked with
Employment Guarantee Scheme started by government of
Maharashtra in 1990-91 (Haldankar, et al. 2004).

5.6 Cashew Cultivation in South Konkan of Maharashtra

In Maharashtra 17100 hectares cultivated area under cashew
(Table 5.5 and Fig 5.2) was recorded during 1980-81. Out of them 16400
hectares (95.90 per cent) area was shared by South Konkan. However
the cultivated area under cashew was declined up to 13600 hectares
during 1990-91. But with the inception of massive horticulture
development programme (E.G.S.) started in 1990-91, the area under
cashew was increased up to 47500 hectares in 2000-01. In 2004-05,
Maharashtra noted massive increase up to 90400 hectares of which
South Konkan shares 85.17 per cent cultivated area under cashew.
Table 5.5
South Konkan of Maharashtra
Share and Growth of Cashew Area in Maharashtra
Area in 00 Hectare
Years South Konkan Maharashtra Share in percentage
1980-81 164 171 95.90
1990-91 135 136 99.26
2000-01 475 686 69.24
2004-05 779 904 85.17

Source: District wise General Statistical Information of Agriculture

Department, (Part II- Epitome of Agriculture in Maharashtra) 1986-
87, 2002, 2006

This is due to the strong research backup from Dr. Balasaheb

Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli through varietals
improvement and the sound propagation of technology. The state
 97

Department of Horticulture is propagating the improved varieties and

the area covered under cashew in the recent past with the grafts of
high yielding varieties i. e. Vengurla-1 to Vengurla-8. There is much
variation at tahsil level in area under cashew.

5.6.1 South Konkan: Tahsilwise Growth of Cashew Cultivation

The average area under cashew cultivation of South Konkan
increased from 15818 to 67442 hectares during period under
investigation (Table 5.6). In the year 1980-81 to 1984-85 Sawantawadi
tahsil shared 33.13 per cent of area under cashew cultivation, followed
by Chiplun (20.15 per cent), Vengurla (12.39 per cent) and Kudal 8.54
per cent) tahsils. The share of less than 1 per cert area under cashew is
noted in Mandangad, Dapoli and Khed tahsils.
During the period of 1985-86 to 1989-90 the average area under
cashew in the study region increased up to 17660 hectares. Dapoli (4.39
per cent) and Ratnagiri (8.29 per cent) tahsils show positive trend,
where as Vengurla (7.53 per cent) tahsil recorded negative trend.
During the period of 1990-91 to 1994-95 the average area under
cashew in the study region has rapidly increased up to 30220 hectares
(Table 5.6). The higher proportion of positive change in area under
cashew is observed in Vengurla (17.39 per cent), Dapoli (8.39 per cent))
and Kankawali (11.50 per cent) tahsils. Sawantwadi (24.50 per cent) is
the only tahsil that shows decline in trend.
During the period of 1995-96 to 1999-2000 the average area under
cashew in the study region has increased up to 37466 hectares. At
tahsil level, Lanja (9.04 per cent) recorded positive change, but
Vengurla (7.69 per cent) and Sawantwadi (17.76 per cent) tahsils noted
decline in area under cashew.
During the period of 2000-01 to 2004-05 the average cultivated
area under cashew in South Konkan was 67442 hectares. The tahsils
 98

like Chiplun (7.63 per cent) and Sangameshwar (6.94 per cent)
recorded positive change in area under cashew, where as Sawantwadi
(13.61 per cent) tahsil noted declining trend.
The analysis reveals that the study region has rapid growth in
area under cashew cultivation from 15818 hectares to 67442 hectares
(Table 5.6). The tahsils like Dapoli (0.86 to 8.08 per cent),
Sangameshwar (0.46 to 6.94 per cent) and Kankawali (1.89 to 10.98 per
cent) have recorded significant increase in percentage in area under
cashew due to use of fallow land for cashew farming through various
government schemes, as well as in Kankawali tahsil shift is from ragi
to cashew i. e. traditional crop to cash crop.
 99
Table 5.6
South Konkan of Maharashtra
Tahsilwise Cashew Cultivated Area and Percentage to Region Total Average (Area in ha)

Sr. No. Name of Tahsil 1980-81 to 1984-85 1985-86 to 1989-90 1990-91 to 1994-95 1995-96 to 1999-2000 2000-01 to 2004-05

Average Area % Average Area. % Average Area % Average Area % Average Area %
1 Mandangad 70.40 0.44 531.40 3.00 276.80 0.91 1298.20 3.46 1988.20 2.85
2 Dapoli 135.40 0.86 775.80 4.39 2536.40 8.39 2525.00 6.73 5443.60 8.08
3 Khed 47.20 0.30 88.20 0.49 374.20 1.24 1358.00 3.62 3568.60 5.29
4 Guhagar 169.00 1.07 77.00 0.44 212.00 0.71 212.00 0.56 3568.20 4.44
5 Chiplun 3243.00 20.50 890.00 5.04 407.50 1.35 561.00 1.49 2991.20 7.63
6 Sangameshwar 71.20. 0.46 336.00 1.91 360.40 1.19 541.00 1.44 5140.20 6.94
7 Ratnagiri 312.00 1.98 1464.20 8.29 1517.00 5.02 2532.80 6.76 4680.20 4.56
8 Lanja 710.00 4.48 693.00 3.93 1258.40 4.17 3390.20 9.04 3078.20 4.90
9 Rajapur 604.00 3.82 576.60 3.27 733.00 2.43 1304.00 3.48 3308.00 5.02
10 Vaibhavawadi - - 333.33 1.89 308.60 1.03 1109.40 2.97 3382.20 2.38
11 Kanakawali 286.00 1.81 848.40 4.81 3485.00 11.50 3755.00 10.03 1610.80 10.98
12 Devagad 363.00 2.29 449.80 2.54 580.40 1.93 1092.20 2.92 7401.00 2.55
13 Malwan 1175.00 7.73 1447.40 8.19 3113.80 10.30 2936.80 7.84 1716.00 5.58
14 Kudal 1351.00 8.54 1585.80 8.98 2396.60 7.94 2721.40 7.27 3764.60 7.36
15 Vengurla 1960.00 12.39 1328.80 7.53 5257.20 17.39 2721.40 7.69 4965.20 3.82
16 Sawantwadi 5321.00 33.63 6234.60 35.30 7404.60 24.50 6728.40 17.76 9183.80 13.61
17 Dodamarg - - - - - 2878.00 6.73 2470.60 3.92
Total 15818 100.00 17660 100.00 30220 100.00 37466 100.00 67442 100.00

Source: Socio-economic Review and District Statistical Abstract of Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg Districts,
1980-81 to 2005-06.
 100

5.6.1 Regional Fruit Research Centre, Vengurla (Maharashtra)

It is established in 1957 under Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan
Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli. Table 5.7 shows the cashew varieties
innovated by this center. Vengurla -1 and Vengurla- 2 varieties are
released in 1974 and 1979 respectively. These are selected varieties
having small size, kernel grade 240 and 320 respectively. Vengurla-3,
variety was released in 1982, having maximum capacity of 23.58 kg /
tree of cashew kernel. Vengurla-4, variety was released in 1982. It is
very useful variety in study region due to its overall merit (Plate 5.2).
Vengurla -5 has the highest perfect flowers (50 per cent) per panicle.
However the fruit set is only 3.3 per cent. Vengurla-6 and Vengurla-7
reported 110 and 100 cashewnuts / kg respectively. The variety
Vengurla-8 released in year 2000 is well known for comparatively big
size of cashewnut and cashew apple.
These varieties are recommended for cultivation in various states
in India, such as Vengurla-1, Vengurla-4 for Karnataka (northern
part), Vengurla-1, Vengurla-4, Vengurla-6, Vengurla-7 and Vengurla-8
for Maharashtra and Goa.Vengurla-4 for Madhya Pradesh.
 101

Table 5.7
Cashew Varieties Innovated By Regional Fruit Research Center Vengurla
Max.
Average Avg.
No. of Colour Avg. Apple nut
Sr. Nut Nut Shelling Perfect Kernel
Varieties Parentage nuts/ of apple juice yield
No. yield wt. % flower grade
Kg apple wt. (g) % (kg/
(Kg/tree) (g)
tree)
1. Vengurla-1 Selection 15.74 160 6.25 31 Yellow 60 65 13 240 20.33
Ansur-1
2. Vengurla-2 Selection 23.10 230 4.25 32 Red 37 45 21 320 45.52
WBDC-5
3. Vengurla-3 Vengurla 1X 16.66 115 9.09 27 Yellow 78 77 25 210 23.58
Vetore 56
4. Vengurla-4 Midanapur 19.08 140 7.69 31 Pink- 45 76 26 210 27.34
Red X red
Vetore 56
5. Vengurla-5 Ansur early 25.60 220 4.30 30 Golden 30 86 50 320 31.26
X-mysur yellow
Kote Kar
6. Vengurla-6 Vetore 56 17.00 110 7.90 28 Yellow 70 65 7.5 210 26.28
X vengrula 1
7. Vengurla-7 Vengurla 3 19.50 100 10.00 30.50 Yellow 60 85 40 180 33.50
X VRI
(M 10/4)
8. Vengurla-8 Vengurla 4 15.75 85 11.50 28.00 Reddish 100 85 38.50 180 22.47
X M-10/4
VRI-1)
Source: Thombare, S. (2005): Cashew Cultivation And Processing Industry, Krushiduth, Publication, and Pune. Pp. 44, 45
 102

5.6.2 South Konkan of Maharashtra: Variety wise Cashew

cultivated Area
In study region farmers cultivate various varieties of cashew. The
respondent farmers (390) cultivate various varieties of cashew in study
region (Table 5.8). Out of them, Vengurla - 4 variety has noted highest
(31.23 per cent) area under cashew cultivation followed by traditional
and other (13.79 per cent) varieties, Vengurla - 8 (18.39 per cent),
Vengurla - 1 (10.34 per cent) and Vengurla - 6 (10.54 per cent) are other
varieties preferred in the region. Vengurla - 1, 4 and 8 varieties are
high yielding varieties. So farmers cultivate these varieties, where as
Vengurla - 2, Vengurla - 3 and Vengurla - 5 varieties cover only less
than 10 per cent area due to their low yield.

Table 5.8
South Konkan of Maharashtra : Variety wise Cashew
cultivated Area

Area
Sr. No. Variety
hectare percentage
1 Vengurla-1 54 10.34
2 Vengurla-2 18.5 3.54
3 Vengurla-3 11 2.11
4 Vengurla-4 163 31.23
5 Vengurla-5 18 3.45
6 Vengurla-6 55 10.54
7 Vengurla-7 34.5 6.61
8 Vengurla-8 96 18.39
9 Traditional and others 72 13.79
Total 522 100
Source: Based on field work
 103

5.6.3 Cultivation and Production Process of Cashew in Study

Region

1. Propagation
Propagation means multiplication of plants either by sexual
(through seeds) or asexual (vegetative) methods. Cashew can be
multiplied using any one of these methods. Selection of planting
material is most important in cashew cultivation. Cashew is highly
cross pollinated and vegetative propagation mainly recommended on
commercial scale. Earlier cashew was usually propagated through
seeds planted in situ with three seeds per hole. Now vegetative
propagation by budding, grafting and soft-wood grafting and air-
layering is also possible. Softwood grafting is the only method which is
commercially feasible and practically highly successful in cashew
cultivation.
In the study region, cultivation of cashew was made from seeds
by traditional way but the yielding was very low (1-2 kg / tree). Since
last two decades farmers have adopted various grafting methods for
cashew plantation such as budding grafting, layering grafting, veneer
grafting, sprout grafting, etc. These methods were costly and not much
beneficial. Hence Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth,
Dapoli has introduced grafting method for cashew cultivation. This
method has also certain limitations. To avoid these limitations, Konkan
Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli has developed softwood grafting method. It
is considered the best method suitable for almost all cashew growing
states in India. After 1993-94 all the cashew plantation is made
through grafting method. In case of soft grafting, over 60 per cent
successful grafts are obtained. So this method is successfully adopted
commercially in the study region. The period from January to April is
suitable for grafting because the success rate of grafting is high within
this period in the study region.
 104

2. Sources of Grafts:
In order to find out the sources of graft, 390 respondent farmers
were interviewed. Out of them 22.82 per cent farmers obtained the
grafts from government nurseries in study region (Table 5.9). Majority
of farmers (67.95 per cent) obtained grafts from private nurseries,
where as 4.87 per cent farmers obtained it from agricultural institutes.
Table 5.9
South Konkan of Maharashtra: Sources of Grafted Seedlings

Sr. Respondent
Source Percentage
No. farmers
1 Government Nurseries 89 22.82
2 Private Nurseries 265 67.95
3 Agricultural Institutes 19 4.87
4 Own 17 4.36
Total 390 100.00
Source: Based on field work

It was observed that only 4.36 per cent farmers prepare grafts in
their own nurseries. The majority farmers depend upon private
nurseries due to their positive results although they are costly (25 to 30
Rs / plant).

3. Seasons and Methods of Cashew Plant Spacing

The plant spacing in the study region varies with the system of
planting. The common layout is square system as it is simple and easily
made. Before raising new plantation of cashewnut in the study region,
lands are prepared before the on set of monsoon (Plate 5.3).
 105

Table 5.10
South Konkan of Maharashtra : Methods of Cashew
Plants Spacing
Sr.
Methods Respondent farmers Percentage
No.
1 Square 263 67.43
2 Quadrangle 23 5.90
3 Hexagonal 13 3.33
4 Equal Level 54 13.85
5 Others 37 9.49
Total 390 100
Source: Based on field work

Various methods of spacing plantation of cashew in the study

region are practiced. Out of total respondent farmers, 67.43 per cent
farmers adopted square method of spacing for cashew plantation which
is also suitable for intercropping practices. Due to hilly, sloppy nature
of land, 13.85 per cent farmers applied equal level slope method for
cashew plantation. Quadrangle and Hexagonal method are used by
5.90 and 3.33 per cent farmers respectively.
The cashew are planted in the pits of 0.60 mt cube that should be
dug at least 15-20 days before actual planting and expose to sunlight so
that the planting should be made at the distance of 7-8 mt depending
upon the soil and climatic conditions. It will accommodate 140 - 202
plants per hectare according to the square system. Due to hard laterite
rock nature farmers in the study region extent the size of pits i. e. 1 mt
cube. In study region some advanced farmers, conduct planting by
spacing of 8 X 8 mt as well as 9 X 9 mt. Some farmers also adopte the
high density planting, consisting of up to 625 plants per hectare for
better utilization of space during early year. Initially planting was done
at a spacing of 4mts x 4mts, 5mts x 5mts or 6mts x 4mst and
maintained up to a period of 7 to 9 years with proper pruning and
 106

training. Later on the expected plants can be thinned out to provide a

spacing of 8mts x 8mts or 10mts x 10mts or 6mts x 8 mts. The planting
distance varies through out the study region due to variation in soils
and farmers different methods of cultivation.

4. Weeding
Clearing the area by manually within 2 meter radius of the trunk
and slashing the remainder is essential until the trees shade out most
of the trees. Weeding can be done chemically using Glyphosate (post
emergent) about 6 to 7 ml per liter of water (0.8 kg /ha) during June
July. It effectively controls the weeds. In the study region very few
farmers practice the weeding (field observation).

5. Mulching
In the study region mulching the cashew tree basins helps to
conserve the soil moisture and to prevent soil erosion (plate 5.4).
Mulching with organic matter or residues inhibits weed growth and
reduces surface evaporation during summer and also regulates the soil
temperature.
On sloppy area, soil and water conservation practices can be done
by making trenches of 30 cm width, 60 cm depth and convenient length
may be taken in between rows along the contour. This will not only
conserve soil and moisture but also enable to enhance the growth of
cashew. This is very useful in the study region.
Table 5.11
South Konkan of Maharashtra: Mulching Practices
Respondent
Sr. No. Practices Percentage
farmers
1 Yes 262 67.18
2 No 128 32.84
Total 390 100
Source: Based on field work
 107

Out of total respondent farmers, 67.18 per cent of farmers

practiced mulching (Table 5.11). The cultivators from the study area
use cashew leaf, weeds and grasses for mulching purposes.

6. Training and Pruning

Training and pruning is the important horticulture practice to be
employed to make better frame work of cashew plant, it helps to control
growth and make easy for cultural practices. The sprouts arising from
the root stock portion of the cashew graft should be removed frequently
during the first year of planting. As an orchard management technique
to improve the sanitation, removal of shoots, lower branches, crisscross
branches and dry branches are found to be beneficial to enhance
flowering and yield. In the study region few farmers have gone through
training and pruning practices in cashew cultivation (field observation).

7. Flowering and Fruiting

In the study region visits, discussion with experts in agriculture
field as well as experienced cashew farmers, it is observed that the
cashew tree starts bearing at the age of 3 to 5 years and attains full
bearing by the 8th to 10th year and continues to yield usually up to 40
years. Normally, there are three growth flushes in cashew. In the study
region the flower bud emergence commences by the middle of
September and continues till the end of February. In the study region
the main season of fruit bearing is October-November and the fruit
ripens during March to May i. e. within 60 days. Late panicles bear
little or no fruits (field observation). The nut is grey coloured, kidney
shaped and contains a single seed. The nut consists of an epicarp,
mascara, endocarp testa and kernel.
 108

8. Harvesting and Handling of Fruits

The fruits are harvested when fully riped (Plate 5.5). They may
be allowed to fall on the ground and collected in dry weather but well
weather they must be collected daily and dried in the sun. In the study
region harvesting and collection of nuts are done over a period of three
months. The peak period of harvesting is during March to May. There
is variation in cashew harvesting methods in the study region. The
status of it is as follows.
Table 5.12
South Konkan of Maharashtra : Methods of Cashew Harvesting

Sr.
Methods Frequency Percentage
No.
1 Use of stick 237 60.77
2 By Climbing 9 2.31
3 Naturally failing 144 36.92
Total 390 100.00
Source: Based on field work

There are three methods of cashew harvesting viz. harvesting by

using stick, by climbing and naturally failing of seeds. Use of stick for
harvesting is the traditional method. Fruits are harvested with the
help of long stick or bamboo to which a hook like sickle is fitted at the
top. Cashew nuts are then separated from the apples by hand.
Harvesting is done almost everyday during the season. The field work
based analysis reveals that about 60.77 per cent farmers use such type
of method. But scientific method of cashew harvesting is naturally
failing of seeds; this method is used by 36.92 per cent farmers (Table
5.12). The climbing method is not the popular and commonly used
method, however only 2.31 per cent farmers use this method for cashew
harvesting. Hence it is necessary to implement scientific method of
harvesting to improve the qualitative yield of cashew.
 109

9. Use of Fertilizer
Fertilizers are important in crop production and in raising the
productivity of land. They supply nutrients necessary for plant growth.
The dose of fertilizers depends on the crop variety, water availability,
and management practices. In addition, organic manures and compost
derived from plant residues and agricultural wastes and by products
are also important inputs.
In study region cashew tree responded to N at125 kg, P2 O5 at 50
kg and K2 O at 100 kg per hectare. The following fertilizer schedule is
commonly followed for cashew plant (Table 5.13).
Table 5.13
Use of Fertilizer for Cashewnut Tree (9/tree)

May June September-October

Age of Tree
(years) N P K N P K
1 50 40 -- 50 40 --
2 100 40 30 100 40 30
3 200 60 60 200 60 60
Above 4 250 65 65 250 60 60
Source: Bal, J. S. (2006): Fruit Growing, Kalyani Publishers Ludhiana, P.159.

Manures and fertilizers promote growth of the plants and

advance tree on set of flowering in young trees. Application of 10-15 kg
of farm yard manure or compost per plant is beneficial.
The current fertilizer recommendations for cashew is 500g N (1.1
kg Urea), 125g P2 O5 (625g rock phosphate) and 125g K2 O (208g
Murjate of potash) per plant annually. The ideal period for fertilizer
application is immediately after the ressation of heavy rains and with
available soil moisture (May-June and September-October). During the
1st, 2nd and 3rd year of planting 1/3rd, 2/3rds and full doze of fertilizers
should be applied and 3rd year onwards full quantity is to be applied.
 110

Table 5.14
South Konkan of Maharashtra : Use of Fertilizer

Sr. Respondent
Type of Fertilizer Percentage
No. farmers
1 Chemical / Inorganic 84 21.54
2 Organic 138 35.38
3 Chemical / Inorganic + Organic 109 27.95
4 Non of them 59 15.13
Total 390 100.00
Source: Based on field work

The analysis of use of fertilizer (Table 5.14) indicates that only

21.54 per cent respondent farmers use chemical fertilizers in cashew
farming, which included Urea, Ammonium Sulphate, Muret of Potash,
Single super phosphate etc. The trend to use of organic fertilizers
(Farm Yard Manures, Green Manures, Vermi compost, Biodynamic
Compost etc) is observed by 35.38 per cent farmers. The use of chemical
as well as organic fertilizers is found in 27.95 per cent farmers, where
as 15.13 per cent of farmers do not use any fertilizer in cashew farming
practices.
In the study region there is least use of fertilizers in cashew
farming due to lack of money, lack of awareness etc. Some farmers use
green manures, farm yard manures which are easily available for
cashew farming. Since last few years the use of bio fertilizers such as
biodynamic compost, vermi compost etc is observed in the study region
(personal interviews). Government provides limited funding, subsidy to
farmers to increase the use of fertilizers for high yielding of cashew
farming.
 111

10. Water Management:

In the study region cashew is well known as rain fed crop. The
need of water to cashew plant is up to 3 years. Besides this, cashew
responds do well, watering during flowering and fruiting. The use of
irrigation during growth and development period of fruits increase the
qualitative yield and reduce fruit drop. But farmers are not interested
to irrigate it.

11. Intercropping
Intercropping is now becoming more common in cashewnut
plantation. This would enable higher return the plantation during the
first 4 yeas till the canopy covers the whole area. Seasonal crops like
horsegram, cowpea, groundnut, sweet potato, ginger, black gram, can
be raised in cashew plantation as intercrop (Bal, 2006).
In the study region intercropping has received little attention.
However it depends on soil and climatic conditions and local situation.
Out of 390 respondent farmers only 31(7.95 per cent) farmers in the
study region have adopted intercropping method (Table 5.15) due to
lack of irrigation facility and lack of awareness among them.
Table 5.15
South Konkan of Maharashtra: Intercropping in Cashew
Cultivation
Sr. Respondent
Response Percentage
No. farmers
1 Yes 31 7.95
2 No 359 92.05
Total 390 100.00
Source: Based on field work

The vegetables, pulses, manure crops, pineapple and fodder crops

etc. are grown as inter crops in the study region.
 112

12. Controls of Pests and Diseases

In the study region, there are various types of pests and Diseases
found in cashew cultivation. Some important pest and diseases are as
follows.

A) Pests
i) Stem and Root Borer (Placaederus ferrugineus L.)
It infects mainly young cashew plants and causes drying of the
stem and roots. In the study region the pest controlled by drenching the
basal trunk and the root region with 1.25 liters of linden 20 EC in 250
liters of water per hectare inject carbon disulphide into tunnels and
plaster them with mud.

ii) Tea mosquito bug (Helopcltis antonii Sign.)

They cause severe damage to the tender growing shoots and
inflorescence of cashew tree in the study region (Photo Plate 5.6). The
bugs lay eggs on the tender parts of shoots and inflorescence. Nymphs
inject the toxic saliva into the plant and the affected portion turns
brown. Drying of young leaves and inflorescence occurs. Circular water
socked spots develop on the infested pods and cause deformation of
fruits. In the study region the pest has controlled by spraying
endosulfan 0.05 per cent or carbaryl at 0.15 per cent or Quinalphos at
0.05 pr cent at the time of emergence of new flushes (October) and
panicles (December - January). Spray the plants after 2 or 3 weeks
depending upon the severity of infestation.

iii) Leaf Miner (Acoccrops sngramma)

The caterpillars of this silvery grey moth mine through the
tender leaves and severely damage them at the time of new flushes.
The thin epidermal peel swells up as blistered patches in the mined
areas. For control this paste in the study region, agricultural expert
 113

suggested by spraying with 0.05 per cent Phosphamidon or Endosulfan

at the time of emergence of new flushes. The spray schedule
recommended for the control of tea mosquito is also effective against
this pest.

IV) The Shoot and Blossom Webber (Macalla moncusalis)

The caterpillars wet the shoots and inflorescence together,
remain inside, and feed on them. The control measures spraying of 0.05
per cent endosulfan or Malathion at the time of emergence of new
flushes immediately after the monsoon is recommended for the control
of the pest in the study region.

B) Diseases
I) Pink Disease or Die Back:
It shoots dry up from the tip downwards. The disease is
prevalent during flowering period. Leaves develop into small sharply
defined green spot with yellow background. Spread of this disease is
controlled by spray of 1 per cent Bordeaux mixture.
II) Anthracnose
Colletotriehum gloeosporioides fungus causes this disease. The
fungus enters the fruit through the stigma in the flower stage. Rainy
season is favourable for the spread of this disease in the study region.
For control this disease, the experts suggested to remove the affected
parts and spray the plant with 3:3:3 Bordeaux mixture.
III) Inflorescence blight
The inflorescence blight is caused by fungi in association with tea
mosquito. The disease is characterized by the drying of floral branches
particularly when cloudy weather prevails. The mosquitos should be
kept under control. Other minor diseases in the study region like leaf
spots, anthracnose etc. are controlled by spraying with 1per cent
Bordeaux mixture.
 114

Table 5.16
South Konkan of Maharashtra: Application of Pest and Diseases

Sr. Respondent
Type Percentage
No. farmers
1 Pesticides 159 40.77
2 Fungicides 22 5.64
3 Pesticides + Fungicides 138 35.38
4. Non Respondent 71 18.21
Total 390 100.00
Source: Based on field work.

It has been observed that 40.77 per cent of farmers are applying
pesticides on cashew tree (Table 5.16). Where as 5.64 per cent of
farmers are applying fungicides. The pesticides as well as fungicides
are applying 35.38 per cent of farmers; where as 18.21 per cent of
farmers are not observed the practices of pesticides or fungicides in
cashew farming.

5.7 Levels of Cashew Productivity in the Study Region

Level of productivity, as a concept, means the degree to which the
economic, cultural and organizational variables (i. e. man-made frame)
are able to exploit abiotic resources of the area for agricultural
production (Singh, 1979). Agricultural productivity, for that matter,
productivity of individual crop depends upon physical and socio-
economic elements of the region.
The regional differences in yields per unit area indicate the
magnitude and direction of the inter-play of a multitude of factors.
However, the level of agricultural productivity is a dynamic concept, as
any modification in physical factors and improvement in non physical
bases of farming affect agricultural productivity that provides a natural
base for future orientation in agricultural planning or more specifically
 115

for individual crops planning. Hear an attempt is made to calculate the

productivity of individual crop i.e. cashew to understand the weaker
areas within the region where special attention can be provided while
planning for the agricultural development in the region.
In fact agricultural production refers to the quantum of return
from arable land in term of intensity and spatial expansion of cropping
system and yield. Measuring the productivity is rather difficult though
not impossible as it is a combine effect of several factors such as land,
labour, capital, climate etc. As such many scholars in the field of
agricultural geography and agricultural economics are making their
best efforts to evolve and improve techniques to measure the
agricultural productivity.
For the present investigation both the Jasbir Singhs crop yield
and concentration indices ranking co-efficient method and Majid
Hussains money value of productivity per unit area method are
employed. Jasbir Singhs method gives the weightage both cultivated
area under particular crop and per hectare yield, whereas Majid
Husains method consider out put in terms of money by current market
value of the particular crop in a particular areal unit.

5.7.1 Cashew Crop Productivity by Jasbir Singhs Methods

(Crop yield and concentration indices ranking co-efficient
method)
The procedure for calculating the productivity by Singhs method
is as follows.
The relative crop yield and concentration indices arranged in
ranking order and computed into average ranking coefficient. The
procedure may be explained as follows-
Y ae
Yi = x 100
Y ar
 116

Where, Yi is the crop yield index

Y ae is the average yield per hectare of the crop a (cashew) in
the component enumeration unit (tahsil),
Y ar is the average yield of crop a (cashew) in the entire study
region.
Pa e
Ci = x 100
Pa r
Where, Ci is the crop concentration index,
Pa e is the percentage strength of crop a (cashew) in the total
harvested area in the component enumeration unit (tahsil) and Pa r is
the percentage strength of crop a (cashew) in the total harvested area
in the entire region.
The yield and concentration ranks for individual crop are added
and thereafter divided by 2, thus giving the crop yield and
concentration indices ranking coefficient. The equation indicates lower
the value of ranking coefficient higher the productivity (Table 5.18).

The equation is:

Crop yield index Crop concentration index
Crop yield and ranking of crop a (cashew + ranking of crop a (cashew)
concentration = ________________________________________________________
Indices ranking
Coefficient for 2
Crop a (cashew)

Following are the three cashew productivity zones in the study

region.

1. High Productivity Zone

This zone covers two tahsils; together they occupy 8.97 per cent
of the study area. Productivity index shows that the Lanja and
Vengurla tahsils have high productivity (Table 5.17 and Fig 5.3).
 117

Where in Lanja tahsil shows very high proportion yield index (112.93)
and crop concentration index (306.00).
Table 5.17
South Konkan of Maharashtra: Levels of Cashew Productivity
(By Jasbir Singhs method)

Percentage
Scale of
Category share of area
Sr. Index value
(Productivit under cashew Tahsils
No. ( Ranking
y Degree) crop to regions
Coefficient)
Total
1 High 8.97 Below 6 Lanja(1.5),Vengurla
(5)
Dapoli (11), Khed
(8.5),
Chiplun (9.5),
Ratnagiri (9.5),
Sangameshwar (8),
Vaibhavwadi (10),
2 Moderate 74.69 6-12
Devagad(9.5),
Kanakawali(6),
Malwan(7.5),
Kudal(7),
Sawantwadi(7.5),
Dodamarg(7)
3 Low 16.34 Above 12 Mandangad(13.5),
Guhagar(17),
Rajapur (15)
Note: Figures in brackets indicate the index values of respective tahsil units.

The Lanja tahsil has very high productive region followed by

Vengurla tahsil with 95.52 crop yield index and 305.36 crop
concentration index. The ranking coefficient for Lanja tahsil is 1.5 and
for Vengurla tahsil it is 5 (Table 5.18). The Lanja and Vengurla tahsils
show high productivity because Lanja tahsil is located at the central
part and Vengurla tahsil is situated on south western boundary of
study region. The use of high yielding improved varieties and the sound
propagation technology are main causes behind the high productivity of
 118

Lanja and Vengurla tahsils. Besides that, the physical and climatic
conditions are also suitable for the cashew cultivation.

2. Moderate Productivity Zone:

The moderate productivity zone covers 74.69 per cent of the
study area (Table 5.17). Index value of cashew productivity in this zone
ranges from 6 to 12(Fig.5.3). It is noted in Dapoli, Khed, Chiplun,
Sangmeshwar, Ratnagiri tahsils and all the tahsils of Sindhudurg
district (excluding Vengurla), where varkas soil condition is suitable for
cashew crop.

3. Low Productivity Zone:

This zone shared 19.13 per cent of study area (Table 5.17). The
Mandangad (13.5), Guhagar (17), and Rajapur (15) tahsils shows very
low productivity as compared to other tahsils in study region (Table
5.17 and Fig 5.3). The crop concentration index (25.45) and crop yield
index (85.07) are also very low in case of Guhagar tahsil. The crop
concentration index (72.36) and crop yield index (87.29) are slightly
higher in case of Mandangad as compared to remaining two tahsils.
The low productivity of cashew is associated with lack of awareness
among the farmers.
 119

Table 5.18
South Konkan of Maharashtra : Cashew Crop Productivity
By Jasbir Singh's Method (2004-05 to 2008-09)

Average Av Av Crop
% to Ranking
Area Prdn Prdty Index Rank Cons. Rank
Tahsils G.C.A. coeff.
ha 000'MT kg/ha Index
Mandangad 4699 4535 965 87.29 15 7.96 72.36 12 13.5
Dapoli 8620 8919 1035 93.60 11 9.17 83.36 11 11
Khed 11020 12910 1172 105.98 4 6.44 58.55 13 8.5
Guhagar 5860 5511 940 85.07 17 2.8 25.45 17 17
Chiplun 8957 11005 1229 111.14 3 3.86 35.09 16 9.5
Sangameshwar 8432 11202 1329 120.18 1 4.41 40.09 15 8
Ratnagiri 2777 2787 1004 90.79 14 18.18 165.27 5 9.5
Lanja 6747 8423 1248 112.93 2 33.66 306.00 1 1.5
Rajapur 5731 5446 950 85.95 16 4.97 45.18 14 15
Vaibhavwadi 2087 2155 1033 93.43 12 12.07 109.73 8 10
Kanakawali 8793 9274 1055 95.40 9 21.51 195.55 3 6
Devagad 1436 1477 1029 93.07 13 13.51 122.82 6 9.5
Malwan 4503 5006 1112 100.56 5 10.69 97.18 10 7.5
Kudal 5899 6245 1059 95.76 7 12.42 112.91 7 7
Vengurla 2209 2332 1056 95.52 8 33.59 305.36 2 5
Sawantwadi 8843 9783 1106 100.07 6 11.17 101.55 9 7.5
Dodamarg 3122 3244 1039 94.01 10 19.51 177.36 4 7
Total 99735 110255 1105 11.00
Source: District Agriculture Superitendent, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg District.
 120

5.7.2 Cashew Crop Productivity by Majid Husains Method

(Productivity in Term of Money per Unit Area)

The identification and delineation of Weaker areas' of agricultural

production has been attempted by many scholars by using different
techniques and parameters. Majid Hussain (1976) measured it by
money value of productivity per unit area. Following formula has
applied for the computation of index value of cashew productivity for
each tahsil unit in the study region.

DP RP
IP= X 100
CAD CAR

Where, IP = Index of cashew productivity

DP = Money value of cashew crops in the tahsil.
CAD = Total cashew area in the tahsil.
RP = Money value of cashew crop in the study region.
CAR = Total cropped area in the region.
 121

Table 5.19
South Konkan of Maharashtra : Levels of Cashew Productivity
(Majid Husains method)

%
share
of area Scale
Category
Sr. under of
(Productivity Tahsils
No. cashew Index
Degree)
crop to value
regions
Total
1 High 56.75 Above Khed (105.12), Chiplun (107.67),
100 Sangameshwar (119.20),
Lanja(119.74),
Malwan(106.70),
Sawantwadi(106.12)
Kudal (101.61), Vengurla(101.32)
2 Moderate 24.12 90- Kankawali (94.62), Devagad (92.29),
100 Dodamarg (95.36), Dapoli (92.83),
Vaibhavwadi (90.50)
3 Low 19.13 Below Mandangad (80.51), Guhagar
90 (82.35), Rajapur (81.24), Ratnagiri
(87.96)
Note: Figures in brackets indicate the index values of respective tahsil units

Following are the three cashew productivity zones in the study

region.
1. High Productivity Zone
The high productivity zone is mainly observed in two pockets (Fig
5.4 and Table 5.19) i. e. north-south belt of Ratnagiri district
comprising Sangameshwar (119.20), Lanja, (119.74), Khed (101.61),
Chiplun (107.67) tahsils and Malwan (106.70), Sawantwadi (106.12),
Kudal (101.61) and Vengurla (101.32) tahsils. This high productivity
 122

zone has occupied 56.75 per cent (Tables 5.19) of total area under
cashew in the region. These tahsils show very high index value (above
100) due to the more proportion of production as compared to other
tahsils. The causes behind the high productivity of these tahsils are
favourable physical conditions and developed socio- economic status of
farmers. All high productivity tahsils have extensive cover of lateritic -
varkas, light soil.

2. Moderate Productivity Zone

This zone covers 24.12 per cent area of cashew area in the study
region. The index value ranges from 90 to 100 (Fig.5.4, Table 5.20) viz
Kanakawali (94.62), Dodamarg (95.36), Vaibhavwadi (90.50), Dapoli
(92.83) and Devgad (92.29) tahsils. This zone covers five tahsils in the
study region where suitable varkas soils are observed.

3. Low Productivity Zone

This zone covers four tahsils in the study region. Together they
occupy some 19.13 per cent (Table 5.19) of cashew area in the study
area. Index value of agricultural productivity in this zone shows below
90. The Ratnagiri (87.96) Mandangad (80.51), Rajapur (81.24) and
Guhagar (82.35) tahsils indicates low productivity of cashew crop.
The low productivity of zone is associated with the lack of awareness
and low quality of cashewnuts which fails to fetch the good prices to the
cashewnuts.
The comparision of the analysis of both the methods reveals that
the results deviate up to some extent.
 123

Table: 5.20
South Konkan of Maharashtra : Cashew Productivity (Majid Husains Methods)
2004-05 to 2008-09
CAD (A) (B) (C) DP DP/CAD RP/CAR I / II IP=I/IIx100
Avarage Avarage Avarage Total yield
Sr.
Tahsils Area Prdty Price/ kg (A) x(B)x(C) I II
No.
Ha kg/ha (in Rs.) (B) Rs.in '000'
1 Mandangad 4699 965 40 181381.40 38600.00 4794199.18 0.805 80.51
2 Dapoli 8620 1035 43 383633.10 44505.00 4794199.18 0.928 92.83
3 Khed 11020 1172 43 555363.92 50396.00 4794199.18 1.051 105.12
4 Guhagar 5860 940 42 231352.80 39480.00 4794199.18 0.823 82.35
5 Chiplun 8957 1229 42 462342.43 51618.00 4794199.18 1.077 107.67
6 Sangameshwar 8432 1329 43 481863.50 57147.00 4794199.18 1.192 119.20
7 Ratnagiri 2777 1004 42 117100.54 42168.00 4794199.18 0.880 87.96
8 Lanja 6747 1248 46 387331.78 57408.00 4794199.18 1.197 119.74
9 Rajapur 5731 950 41 223222.45 38950.00 4794199.18 0.812 81.24
10 Vaibhavwadi 2087 1033 42 90546.58 43386.00 4794199.18 0.905 90.50
11 Kanakawali 8793 1055 43 398894.45 45365.00 4794199.18 0.946 94.62
12 Devagad 1436 1029 43 63538.69 44247.00 4794199.18 0.923 92.29
13 Malwan 4503 1112 46 230337.46 51152.00 4794199.18 1.067 106.70
14 Kudal 5899 1059 46 287363.89 48714.00 4794199.18 1.016 101.61
15 Vengurla 2209 1056 46 107304.38 48576.00 4794199.18 1.013 101.32
16 Sawantwadi 8843 1106 46 449896.47 50876.00 4794199.18 1.061 106.12
17 Dodamarg 3122 1039 44 142725.35 45716.00 4794199.18 0.954 95.36
Total (CAR) 99735 1105 43 4794199.18 798304.00
Average RP
Source: District Agriculture Superitendent, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg District, 2004-05 to 2008-09.
 124

By Jasbir Singhs method the high productivity of cashew occurs

in two (Lanja and Vengurla) tahsils, where as by Majid Husains
method the high productivity is noted in eight (Chiplun, Khed,
Sangamashwar, Lanja, Mandangad, Sawantwadi, Kudal and Vengurla)
tahsils. By singhs method the low productivity of cashew is observed in
Mandangad, Guhagar and Rajapur tahsils, whereas by Husains
method along with these tahsils Ratnagiri tahsil is also added in this
category. Hence comparative analysis of these methods reveals that
Majid Husains money value method seems to be more applicable to
find out the level of cashew productivity of the study region, as this
method represents realistic picture of the productivity of cashew in the
study region (personal observations and interviews of the farmers).

5.7.3 South Konkan of Maharashtra : Status of Cashew By-

products
Cashewnut is an important commercial product in cashew
cultivation. There are several by-products of cashew; those are earlier
discussed in this chapter. The status of these by-products in the study
region is as fallows.
A) Wood: It is observed that, the wood of cashew tree is used in
South Konkan for making the packing cases, house posts, fencing poles.
It is also used for building the fishing boats in coastal region.
B) CNSL: Cashewnut Shell Liquid (CNSL) is also one of the
important by products of cashew. It is use for painting work, touch
wood oil, rubber and resin processing work. In the local market price of
CNSL is very low. However, as per field observation there are only
three units working in Kudal tahsils, but their production of CNSL oil
is negligible.
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South Konkan: Cashew Apple Products

Plate: 5.7
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C) Cashew Apple: Cashew apple can be used for preparing

cashew syrup, jam, juice and country liquor. However, considering use
of cashew apple, there are certain limitations of this product.
As per field observation (2008-09) in the study region, 3 small-
scale cashew apple processing units were inoperation (Fig 5.5). These
are listed below.
1) Konkan Kaju Samuh, Gopuri Ashram, Vagade, Tal.
Kanakwali.
2) Arolkar Fruit Products, Vengurla, Tal. Vengurla.
3) Sujay Home Products, Kharepatan. Tal. Kanakwali.
Cashew syrup, jam and juice are healthy products for diet of
human being. According to the entrepreneur, Shri. Desai (Sujay Home
products, Kharepatan. Tal. Kanakwali) cashew is used for preparing
products like juice and jam (Plate 5.7). However, there is very poor
demand for such type of products in rural and urban area also. Because
of poor demand for these products such type of processing units are not
established on large numbers. However, among these units established
in the study region presently only one unit (Konkan Kaju Samuh,
Gopuri Ashram, Vagade) is functioning, which is demo cum training
center of cashew apple processing unit, Whereas other two processing
units are replaced by fruit processing units i. e. Mango, Kokum etc. It is
also noted that least amount of cashew apple is used in country liquor.
Region produces cashewnut is on large scale. But due to apathy
of cashew growers, poor support of state government and the
production of cashew by-products are insignificant in the study region.
However, there is a large scope for growing such type of processing
units
D) Medicinal Use: Young cashew leaves are used for Ayurvedik
medicine purpose. It is observed that, use of cashew leaves for
preparing medicines is very poor in the region.
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5.8 Conclusion
It is found that there is unanimity as regard to origin and
history of cashew plant. It is one of the oldest fruits used from 500
years in India. Cashew has a wide range of its importance. Being
tropical fruit, cashew was introduced in the Malabar Coast considering
as a waste land crop grown for a forestation and soil conservation of
hilly area.
At present it is cultivated along east-west coast and in some
interior part of India. However on the commercial base it is grown at
selected locations in India where Maharashtra has shared 19.20 per
cent area under cashew in the country.
Due to constant efforts by farmers, strong research back up of
Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli and encouragement by government
of Maharashtra, Horticultural Development Programme through
Employment Guarantee Scheme (on the basis of 100 per cent subsidy)
have given impetus to increase the area under cashew significantly.
At present South Konkan shares 85.17 per cent of area under
this crop in the state.
The cashew cultivation and production need scientific knowledge,
skills and use of recent technology. But it is observed that the level of
use of fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides is very low in the study region.
The Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli
has developed 8 different varieties of cashew. The Vengurla-4 variety is
more popular among the farmers.
The analysis of levels of cashew cultivation reveals that there is
variation in the levels of cashew productivity. By M. Husains method
(productivity in term of money per unit area) which has given more
realistic results, over half of the region possess high productivity zone.
About 20 per cent of the area in the region has low productivity, which
is a potential area for bringing additional area under cashew
cultivation.
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References
1 Agnolioni, M., Guilians. F. (1977): Cashew Cultivation, Instituto
Agronomico Per Loltremare,168.
2 Bal, J. S. (2006): Fruit Growing, Kalyani Publishers, Ludhiana,
p. 153.
3 Bose, T. K. Mitra, S. K. et al. (Ed) (1990): Tropical Horticulture,
vol. 1. Naya Prokash, Calcutta pp. 566-572.
4 Government of Maharashtra, District wise General Statistical
Information of Agriculture Department, (Part II- Epitome of
Agriculture in Maharashtra) 1986- 87, 2002, 2006
5 Gupta, V. K., Sharma, S. K. (2000): Disease of Fruit Crops,
Kalyani Publication, New Delhi.
6 Haldankar, P. M., Chavan, V. G., Sakapal, B. B., Deshpande, S.
B. and Patil, B. P. ( 2004): Strategies and constraint for cashew
production in Maharashtra, The Cashew, 18 (2), pp 14-19.
7 http://dacnet.nic.in/cashewcocoa/stat.htm#stat
8 http://www.nrccashew.org
9 Husain, M.: A New Approach to the Agricultural Productivity
Regions of the Sutlej-Ganga Plains of India, Geographical Review
of India, Vol. 38, No. 3 (Sept. 1976), pp. 230-236.
10 Ibid. p.130.
11 Ibid. p.159.
12 Mandal, R. C. (2000): Cashew production and Processing
Technology, Published by AGROBIOS, India, p. 129.
13 Singh, Amar (1996): Fruit physiology and Production, Kalyani
Publishers, Ludhiana, p. 486.
14 Thombare, S. (2005): Cashew Cultivation and Processing
Industry, rushiduth, Publication, Pune. pp. 44, 4.
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