Question : CASHEW PROCESSING AND EXPORTS

(a) whether the Government has any proposal for process mechanization and automation of cashew processing units, quality upgradation, food safety upgradation and generic promotion of Indian cashew overseas;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Cashew Export Promotion Council of India has requested the Government to include cashew among the eligible items in the new Status Holders Incentive Crop Scheme;

(d) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto; and

(e) the steps taken/being taken by the Government to boost declining cashew production in Kerala, Goa and Odisha?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY(DR. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a) & (b) Yes, Madam. The Cashew Export Promotion Council has submitted the following proposal under the XII Plan Scheme to the Ministry.

1. Process Mechanization and Automation of Cashew Processing Units.

2. Quality Up-gradation and Food Safety Certifications.

3. Generic Promotion (GCTF-Global cashew Task Force, CEPCI initiatives & promotion of “Indian Cashews” overseas).

(c) There is no scheme named “Status Holders Incentive Crop Scheme” in Foreign Trade Policy.

(d) Does not arise.

(e) In order to enhance production and productivity of horticulture crops in the country including cashew, Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture is implementing Centrally Sponsored Schemes name Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan States (HMNEH), National Horticulture Mission (NHM) and Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY). Under these schemes, assistance is provided for holistic development of horticulture including setting up of cashew processing units.