Cashew nuts in India are considered one of the most significant players in the world market. Cashew nut cultivation is an important area of agricultural activity but also provides livelihoods to many farmers. The following article discusses India’s top 10 cashew-producing states, their contributions, and the characteristics of each.
Cashew Production in India
Cashew cultivation in India is spread across a significant area of around 0.7 million hectares with an annual production of over 0.8 million tonnes. During 2019-20 and 2021-22, cashew nut production in India moved up from 0.70 million to 0.77 million tonnes from which it is evident that it is on a sound growth curve.
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Largest Cashew Producing state
Maharashtra is the leading state in the production of cashew nuts in India. With a record production of 199,700 tonnes every year, it can be considered a region where extensive cashew cultivation takes place due to the climate prevailing in the Konkan region. The economic importance and sustenance of numerous farmers contribute to Maharashtra’s prominence as an essential part of the Indian cashew industry.
Top 10 Cashew Producing States in India
The following table lists the top 10 cashew-producing states in India, along with their respective production figures:
|
Rank |
State |
Cashew Production (in tonnes) |
|
1 |
Maharashtra |
199,700 |
|
2 |
Andhra Pradesh |
127,200 |
|
3 |
Orissa |
121,300 |
|
4 |
Karnataka |
77,900 |
|
5 |
Tamil Nadu |
77,300 |
|
6 |
Kerala |
76,800 |
|
7 |
Chhattisgarh |
21,400 |
|
8 |
West Bengal |
11,500 |
|
9 |
Meghalaya |
10,000 |
|
10 |
Gujarat |
6,700 |
Overview of Each State
- Maharashtra: The leading state with the highest production due to its ideal climatic conditions.
- Andhra Pradesh: Known for its extensive cashew orchards and second in production.
- Orissa: A significant contributor with a strong emphasis on cashew farming.
- Karnataka: Features a diverse agricultural landscape supporting cashew cultivation.
- Tamil Nadu: Has a long-standing tradition of cashew farming.
- Kerala: Historically known for its cashew processing industry.
- Chhattisgarh: Emerging as a notable producer with increasing cultivation efforts.
- West Bengal: Contributes modestly but has potential for growth.
- Meghalaya: A smaller player with unique climatic advantages for cultivation.
- Gujarat: The least among the top ten but still part of India’s diverse agricultural profile.
