Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, May 15: A two-day state-level Cashew Fair will be held in Mangaluru from May 17 and 18 at Kadri Park, featuring technical workshops, exhibitions, cultural programmes and activities aimed at promoting cashew cultivation and value-added products.
The details of the fair were announced by Mamatha Gatti, the newly appointed chairperson of Karnataka Cashew Development Corporation Limited (KCDC), during a press conference held at the corporation’s office on May 15.
The fair will be inaugurated by Eshwar B Khandre, Karnataka’s minister for forest, ecology and environment. The inaugural function, scheduled for 11 am on May 17, will be attended by Speaker U T Khader and district in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao as guests of honour. MLA D Vedavyas Kamath will preside over the programme.
Several dignitaries, including MP Captain Brijesh Chowta, legislators, members of the Legislative Council and heads of various boards and corporations, are expected to participate. Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari Dr D Veerendra Heggade will attend as the chief guest.
As part of the fair, a two-day technical workshop on cashew cultivation and processing will be organised. Experts from agriculture and research sectors will deliver sessions on modern technologies in cashew farming, processing techniques, value addition and future opportunities in the industry.
ICAR-Directorate of Cashew Research director Dr J Dinakar Adiga will speak on modern technologies in cashew cultivation. Senior scientist Dr Veena G L will present insights on cashew processing and value addition. Progressive farmer Subhan Rai will share his practical experiences in cashew farming, while Vishwakeshava will speak about his journey in cashew and arecanut processing.
On May 18, the technical session will include discussions on self-reliant cashew farming by 2035, the Indian cashew sector, advancements in cashew technology, and government schemes related to cashew cultivation and nursery accreditation.
The fair will also host speech and drawing competitions for students and rangoli competitions for women. Farmers who have made notable achievements in cashew cultivation will be felicitated during the event.
Cultural programmes are also part of the fair. On May 17 evening, a Tulu drama titled "Manaskara Master" will be staged by the team led by Devadas Kapikad. On May 18, a musical evening will be presented by the Inchara Melodies.
The event will feature more than 70 stalls, showcasing cashew products, value-added items and direct market opportunities for farmers. Free cashew fruit juice will be provided to visitors, and a special campaign titled “Manegondu Geru” (A Cashew Tree for Every Home) will also be launched.
Organisers said entry to the state-level fair will be free for the public and invited people to participate in large numbers.