(a) whether Government is aware of the serious crisis being faced by the traditional industry of Cashew in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) whether the Government is propose to resume various assistance schemes that were in operation to assist these industries in the State?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY ( SHRI E.V.K.S. ELANGOVAN)
(a) & (b) The cashew industry has been facing problems for the last few years due to a fall in international prices and also due to comparatively lower price offered by Vietnam in the international market.
(c) The Government is providing financial assistance through Cashew Export Promotion Council to Cashew exporters for Setting up/improving the facilities for Cashew Kernels in Value Added Form/Consumer Packs, Quality Up-gradation by Process Improvement, Implementation of Internationally accepted Certification Scheme and Introduction of Flexi Pouch Vacuum Packing System on a continuing basis.