Area, Production, Productivity

Cashew cultivation is a significant agro-economic activity in Kerala, contributing to employment generation, rural development, and export earnings. Over the years, the state has taken focused initiatives to expand cashew plantations, improve productivity, and ensure the availability of high-quality grafts to farmers.

The Kerala State Agency for the Expansion of Cashew Cultivation (KSACC) has been instrumental in spearheading cashew development initiatives since 2009. Between 2009–10 and 2023–24, KSACC has distributed a remarkable 96.08 lakh grafts, covering a total cashew cultivation area of approximately 44,278.64 hectares. The highest distribution was recorded in 2010–11, with 17.39 lakh grafts benefiting an area of 8,694 hectares, reflecting the peak of cashew promotion efforts.

In the most recent years, from 2021–22 to 2023–24, the agency distributed over 14.6 lakh grafts, rejuvenating more than 5,700 hectares, showcasing Kerala’s continued commitment to sustainable cashew farming. These figures also highlight a strategic shift toward precision planting and better yield optimization, even with a comparatively lower number of grafts.

Supporting this mission, a strong network of 27 recognized cashew nurseries—spanning state agriculture farms, Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) stations, ICAR centers, and public sector units like KSCDC and CAPEX—ensures a steady supply of certified grafts. These nurseries are spread across key districts such as Kollam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kannur, and Kasaragod, which serve as focal points for cashew cultivation in the state.

Through KSACC’s targeted programs and the collaborative efforts of research institutions and nurseries, Kerala continues to revitalize its cashew sector. With scientific interventions, inclusive schemes, and farmer-centric strategies, the state is advancing towards enhanced productivity, quality produce, and improved livelihoods in the cashew-growing belt.

KSACC – Graft Distribution & Cultivation Area (2009–2024)

Year Grafts Distributed Area (in Ha)
2009-10727,1623,636
2010-111,738,8878,694
2011-12892,7804,464
2012-13520,0002,500
2013-14955,3354,300
2014-15630,0003,150
2015-16465,0002,325
2016-17662,5603,312
2017-18324,4371,622
2018-19606,8982,980
2019-20408,4661,859
2020-21216,331913
2021-22816,1843,128
2022-23337,5501,380.49
2023-24306,6631,257.15
Total Total Grafts Distributed: 9,608,253 Total Area Covered: 44,278.64 Ha
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