New Board Formation
Cashew Board Tamil Nadu: The Tamil Nadu government has established a dedicated Cashew Board with its headquarters in Cuddalore. The main purpose of this board is to protect the welfare of producers and workers while promoting cashew cultivation and exports.
Importance of Cashew in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu ranks fifth in cashew production in India. The state is also the second-largest exporter of cashew nuts in the country. This highlights the economic importance of cashew in boosting both farmer income and state exports.
Static GK fact: India is the largest producer and exporter of cashew kernels in the world, with major contributions from Kerala, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu.
Cultivation and Output
Currently, cashew is cultivated on 2.09 lakh acres across Tamil Nadu. During this year, the state has recorded a production of 43,460 metric tonnes of cashew nuts. This shows the strong presence of cashew cultivation in coastal and semi-arid districts.
Static GK Tip: Cashew trees were originally introduced to India by Portuguese traders in the 16th century.
Budget Allocation and Structure
In the 2025–2026 Agriculture Budget, the state government allocated Rs 10 crore for the establishment of the Cashew Board. The board will be chaired by the Agriculture Minister of Tamil Nadu. It will also have 12 members, including representatives from agriculture, export, and industry-related bodies.
Welfare and Export Focus
The Cashew Board aims to protect the interests of both farmers and workers engaged in cultivation and processing. At the same time, it will create strategies to enhance cashew exports, strengthening Tamil Nadu’s position in global trade.
Static GK fact: Cashew nut is not only consumed as a dry fruit but is also used in confectionery, bakery, and beverage industries worldwide.
Strategic Significance
By creating an institutional framework, Tamil Nadu intends to enhance value addition, processing, and market expansion for cashew. This move is expected to improve employment opportunities in Cuddalore and nearby districts, where cashew cultivation and processing are concentrated.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Cashew Board Tamil Nadu:
| Topic | Detail |
| Cashew Board headquarters | Cuddalore |
| Rank of Tamil Nadu in cashew production | Fifth in India |
| Tamil Nadu’s position in exports | Second-largest exporter in India |
| Cultivation area | 2.09 lakh acres |
| Production in 2025 | 43,460 metric tonnes |
| Budget allocation | Rs 10 crore in 2025–2026 |
| Chairperson of the board | Agriculture Minister of Tamil Nadu |
| Number of members in the board | 12 |
| Main objectives | Welfare of producers and workers, boosting production and exports |
| Global fact | India is the largest cashew kernel exporter in the world |
