Team Herald
MAPUSA: The Goa State Agricultural Marketing Board (GSAMB) alleged on Wednesday that poor quality cashew nuts are imported from outside the State and sold as Goan produce.
Addressing a press conference here, Board Chairman Velip said, “Goan cashews are authentic and one of the best in the world. However, cheap cashews are being labeled as Goan produce and sold in shops especially along the coastal belt.”
Therefore, he appealed to the government to intervene and stop traders from “spoiling the name of Goa by selling outside cashew under the brand name of Goan Cashew”.
He also urged the government to look into trading of cashew nuts without any record and without paying market fees.
Explaining how the Board contributes to the development of agriculture in Goa, Velip said that the revenue generated by the Board by way of market fees, rent and other means is utilised for providing and upgrading infrastructures at various yards located in different talukas.
Presently, he said, the Board is taking up development of market yards at Mapusa, Sanquelim, Curchorem and Margao on priority. Besides, he said, the Board is planning to open yards in talukas where there is none at present.
Informing that the Board is planning to introduce flying squad concept to identify unregistered traders and take action against them, he appealed to the farmers and traders to register themselves with the Board.
Velip also informed that the Board is planning to set up treatment plant at Mapusa yard to treat one tonne of garbage per day.
Velip futher informed that the Board would meet the chief minister and request him to increase the support price for cashew from Rs 100 to Rs 160 and also support price for paddy.
Meanwhile, the Board clarified that it has no power to fix rate of any notified commodities including cashew nuts.