The Cashew Seedings Project in India for hybrids seeds aims to promote the cultivation of high-yielding cashew varieties through the distribution of hybrid seeds. The project is being implemented by the National Research Centre for Cashew (NRCC), a premier research institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
The project involves the development and multiplication of cashew hybrid seeds using advanced breeding techniques. The hybrids are created by crossing high-yielding parental lines, resulting in offspring with desirable traits such as higher nut yield, disease resistance, and better quality nuts.
Together with NRCC, we have successfully established several cashew seed gardens across India to produce hybrid seeds on a large scale. These gardens are equipped with modern infrastructure and technologies for seed production, processing, and packaging. The project also provides training to farmers on the proper handling, storage, and planting of hybrid seeds.
The distribution of hybrid seeds is being carried out through various channels such as government agencies, farmer cooperatives, and private seed companies. The project has also established a network of cashew nurseries to provide quality planting material to farmers.
The Cashew Seedings Project in India for hybrids seeds is expected to benefit around 1 lakh hectares of cashew plantations by 2025. This will lead to an increase in nut yield by 25-30%, resulting in higher income for farmers and improved livelihoods. The project is also expected to contribute to the overall development of the cashew industry in India by enhancing its competitiveness in the global market.