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GOAN CASHEW (KERNEL)

GOAN CASHEW

1. Context

Goan cashew (kernel) got the geographical indication (GI) tag

2. Goan Cashew

Goan cashew, also known as Goan feni or cashew feni, is a popular alcoholic beverage produced in the coastal state of Goa in India. It is made from cashew apples, which are the fruits of the cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale). Goa is one of the major cashew-producing regions in India, and Goan cashew is a specialty product known for its unique flavor and potency

Cashew to Feni – A glimpse into the making of the jungle juice of Goa. - Zantye .com

Here's how Goan cashew is typically made:

Cashew apples are harvested when they ripen. The cashew nut, which is the primary seed of the cashew tree, is encased in a hard shell attached to the bottom of the cashew apple.

The cashew nut is removed from the cashew apple. It is separated from the fruit, and the nut is then roasted or processed for consumption separately.

The cashew apples are crushed to extract their juice, which is then fermented in large earthen pots.

This fermentation process can take several days and is crucial for the development of flavor and alcohol content.

3. What does the GI tag mean for the cashew industry in Goa?

Cashew manufacturers and processors in Goa said they hoped the GI tag would help consumers differentiate between authentic Goan cashews and cashews sourced from outside the state, which are often marketed as ‘Goan cashews’

The application for the GI tag for the Goan cashew — derived from the Portuguese name ‘caju’ or ‘kaju’ in Konkani — was filed by the Goa Cashew Manufacturers’ Association (GCMA), with the Department of Science, Technology and Waste Management, Government of Goa, acting as facilitator

4. What is a GI tag?

A GI tag, or Geographical Indication tag, is a form of intellectual property protection granted to products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics that are essentially attributable to that place of origin. The purpose of a GI tag is to protect the interests of producers and promote the unique qualities of products associated with a particular region

Here are some key points about GI tags:

A GI tag is used to identify products that are closely linked to a specific geographic area. It serves as a certification that the product originates from that region.
Products with a GI tag are often recognized for their quality, authenticity, and reputation. The unique characteristics of the product are associated with the natural and human factors of the region, such as climate, soil, traditional knowledge, and craftsmanship.
The registration of a GI provides legal protection to the product's name and reputation. It prevents others from using the name to market products that do not originate from the designated region.
A GI tag can lead to economic benefits for the producers and the region. It can help increase the market value of the product, stimulate local economies, and preserve traditional practices.

5. Other GI tag Products in India

India has a rich cultural and culinary heritage, and as a result, it is home to a wide range of products that have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags. These GI-tagged products are known for their unique qualities and are often deeply rooted in traditional knowledge and practices. Here are some examples of GI-tagged products in India:

Darjeeling Tea: Darjeeling tea, grown in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, is one of the most famous GI-tagged products in India. It is known for its distinctive flavor, aroma, and unique terroir.

Kanchipuram Silk Sarees: Kanchipuram silk sarees, also known as Kanchi silk sarees, are traditional silk sarees woven in the Kanchipuram region of Tamil Nadu. They are renowned for their rich texture and intricate designs.

Basmati Rice: Basmati rice is primarily grown in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India and parts of Pakistan. It is prized for its long grains, delicate aroma, and unique flavor.

Alphonso Mangoes: Alphonso mangoes, also known as Hapus, are grown in the Konkan region of Maharashtra and certain parts of Goa. They are considered one of the best mango varieties in the world, known for their sweetness and flavor.

Banarasi Silk Sarees: Banarasi silk sarees, produced in Varanasi (Benares), Uttar Pradesh, are famous for their intricate brocade work and are often worn on special occasions and weddings.

Champaran Bananas: Grown in the Champaran region of Bihar, these bananas have a distinct taste and aroma, making them unique among banana varieties.

Nagpur Oranges: Nagpur oranges, grown in the Nagpur region of Maharashtra, are known for their sweet and tangy flavor. They have a GI tag to protect their origin.

Kullu Shawls: Kullu shawls are woven in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh. They are characterized by their vibrant colors and intricate designs.

Goa Feni: As mentioned earlier, Goan feni is made from cashew apples in Goa and has a GI tag.

Madhubani Paintings: Madhubani paintings, also known as Mithila paintings, are traditional folk art created by women in the Mithila region of Bihar. They depict various themes and are characterized by intricate designs and bright colors.

Channapatna Toys: Channapatna toys are wooden toys and dolls made in the town of Channapatna in Karnataka. They are known for their unique lacquer finish and traditional craftsmanship.

6. Way forward

Cashew was native to northeast Brazil in Latin America and was introduced to Goa by the Portuguese in the 16th century (1570). At the time of its introduction on Indian coasts, cashew was known mainly as a crop for afforestation and soil conservation. Historical records cited by the GCMA in its GI application state that Christian missionaries imported high yielding varieties from Latin American countries and cultivated them extensively in Goa

Previous Year Questions

1.Which of the following has/have been accorded 'Geographical Indication' status? (UPSC CSE 2015)

1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees

2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma

3. Tirupathi Laddu

Select the correct answer using the code given below

A.1 only

B.2 and 3 only

C.1 and 3 only

D.1, 2 and 3

Answer (C)

2.Match the following Geographical Indication tags with their places in Telangana: (TSPSC Group 4 2018)

G.I. Tag	Place
A. Silver Filigree	1. Warangal
B. Scroll painting	2. Pochampally
C. Ikat	3. Nirmal
D. Dhurries	4. Karimnagar
	5. Cheriyal

a)A-4, B-5, C-2, D-1

b)A-5, B-2, C-4, D-1

c)A-3, B-5, C-4, D-2

d)A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4

Answer (a)

Source: indianexpress

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GOAN CASHEW

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