Team Herald
PANJIM: The third edition of the Goa Cashew Fest began on Friday with the launch of three major initiatives focused on sustainability, rural livelihoods, and heritage promotion.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant inaugurated the event, which was also attended by Union Minister Shripad Naik, state ministers Vishwajit Rane and Rohan Khaunte, and other dignitaries.
The Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) introduced Sylvan, a packaged cashew product aimed at offering premium-quality nuts sourced from government-managed orchards.
The initiative emphasises sustainable farming practices and features QR-coded packaging that allows consumers to trace the origin of each packet. Despite the emphasis on quality and eco-conscious branding, Sylvan products will be priced at par with market rates to ensure affordability. A second initiative—a coastal cashew plantation drive—was also launched.
The effort aims to restore degraded stretches of the coastline, particularly in Salcete taluka, using cashew plantations to combat soil erosion and promote climate resilience.
The plantation drive is expected to generate seasonal employment in coastal communities and contribute to long-term ecological restoration. The third announcement was the launch of Ozzo Feni by Cazcar, described as India’s first Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged feni.
The move gives formal recognition to feni as a region-specific product and is expected to help Goan distillers access broader markets. Officials said the GI tag protects the authenticity of the traditional liquor and supports local artisans involved in its production. The festival also featured technical sessions on cashew processing, farming practices, and market potential.
These discussions brought together stakeholders from the cashew industry to exchange ideas and identify opportunities for growth. In the evening, the event transitioned into a cultural showcase, with live music performances by local and national artists including Meet Bros and Neeti Mohan.
A cashew-themed fashion show curated by local designer Philu Martins and over 50 food and beverage stalls offering cashew-based and Goan cuisine added to the festive atmosphere. Organisers said the festival aimed to position cashew as a symbol of Goan identity while promoting entrepreneurship, environmental awareness, and innovation in the sector.