PANAJI
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday inaugurated the fourth edition of the Goa Cashew Fest at DB Ground, Panaji, placing the spotlight on the State’s cashew heritage and its economic significance.
The three‑day festival, organised by the Goa Forest Development Corporation Ltd, will continue until April 12. Sawant, addressing a large gathering, underscored the sector’s role in sustaining livelihoods.
“The cashew sector supports nearly 30,000 families in Goa. It is not just an economic activity but a way of life for many Goans,” he said. He added that cashew cultivation and feni production are integral to Goa’s identity.
“Cashew and feni are part of our heritage. We must promote them globally while protecting their authenticity through Geographical Indication certification,” he remarked.
The festival offers a mix of tradition and innovation where visitors can witness live demonstrations of feni distillation, attend technical workshops on cashew farming and processing, and enjoy entertainment programmes. More than 50 stalls showcase cashew‑based culinary creations, highlighting the nut’s versatility in Goan cuisine.
The Cashew Fest has grown into a popular annual event, drawing locals and tourists alike. Organisers said the festival aims to support farmers, promote entrepreneurship, and preserve Goa’s cashew heritage for future generations.
With its blend of cultural celebration and industry focus, the Cashew Fest once again places the cashew at the heart of Goa’s economic and cultural calendar.
