Cashew is a commercially significant crop in India, renowned for its nutritious kernels, high export value, and role in the food processing industry. Cashew nuts are rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins (E, K, and B6), minerals (magnesium, copper, and phosphorus), and antioxidants. They are consumed as snacks, used in confectionery, and processed into value-added products such as cashew butter and cashew oil.
India is one of the largest producers and exporters of cashews globally, with leading production in states like Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Goa, and West Bengal. To meet increasing demand and boost productivity, agricultural research institutes have developed high-yielding, pest-resistant, and region-specific cashew varieties.
This article highlights more than 10 top cashew varieties in India, their characteristics, and regions of cultivation.
1. VRI-1
VRI-1 is a high-yielding variety developed by the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU).
- Nuts per Tree: 8–10 kg/tree
- Nut Size: Medium-large
- Kernel Outturn: 28–30%
- Regions: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka
- Characteristics:
- Early-maturing variety with a high nut yield.
- Resistant to tea mosquito bugs and other common pests.
- Uses: Raw consumption, roasting, and processing.
2. BPP-8
BPP-8 is a popular variety known for its high yield and large nuts.
- Developed By: Bapatla Agricultural College, Andhra Pradesh
- Nuts per Tree: 10–12 kg/tree
- Nut Size: Large and uniform
- Kernel Outturn: 30–32%
- Regions: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana
- Characteristics:
- High kernel recovery with excellent quality.
- Early-bearing and suitable for semi-arid regions.
- Uses: Export and processing industries.
3. Vengurla-4
Vengurla-4 is a high-yielding variety developed for coastal regions.
- Developed By: Regional Fruit Research Station, Vengurla, Maharashtra
- Nuts per Tree: 12–15 kg/tree
- Nut Size: Medium-large
- Kernel Outturn: 28–30%
- Regions: Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka
- Characteristics:
- Tolerant to drought conditions and pests.
- Consistent performance in coastal areas.
- Uses: Raw cashews and roasted kernels.
4. Vengurla-7
Vengurla-7 is a popular variety known for its bold nut size and high yield.
- Developed By: Regional Fruit Research Station, Maharashtra
- Nuts per Tree: 15–18 kg/tree
- Nut Size: Large
- Kernel Outturn: 30–32%
- Regions: Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka
- Characteristics:
- High tolerance to pests like thrips and tea mosquito bugs.
- Produces high-quality nuts suitable for processing.
- Uses: Raw consumption and export.
5. Ullal-1
Ullal-1 is a widely cultivated variety, ideal for regions with moderate rainfall.
- Developed By: University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad
- Nuts per Tree: 10–12 kg/tree
- Nut Size: Medium
- Kernel Outturn: 28–30%
- Regions: Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu
- Characteristics:
- Early-bearing variety with regular yields.
- Resistant to common pests.
- Uses: Raw and roasted kernels.
6. Dharwad-1
Dharwad-1 is a high-yielding variety known for its high kernel outturn.
- Developed By: University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad
- Nuts per Tree: 12–15 kg/tree
- Nut Size: Large and uniform
- Kernel Outturn: 32–34%
- Regions: Karnataka, Maharashtra
- Characteristics:
- Adaptable to dryland and semi-arid conditions.
- Produces bold nuts with excellent quality.
- Uses: Processing and confectionery.
7. Goa-1
Goa-1 is a locally adapted variety developed for the coastal areas of Goa.
- Developed By: ICAR-Goa
- Nuts per Tree: 10–12 kg/tree
- Nut Size: Medium
- Kernel Outturn: 28–30%
- Regions: Goa, Maharashtra
- Characteristics:
- High tolerance to saline soils and humid climates.
- Consistent yields under coastal conditions.
- Uses: Local markets and value-added products.
8. NRCC Selection-2
NRCC Selection-2 is a variety developed for high yield and kernel recovery.
- Developed By: National Research Centre for Cashew (NRCC)
- Nuts per Tree: 14–16 kg/tree
- Nut Size: Large and bold
- Kernel Outturn: 32–34%
- Regions: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka
- Characteristics:
- High-quality nuts with uniform size.
- Resistant to common diseases.
- Uses: Export and processing.
9. Bhaskara
Bhaskara is an improved variety known for its large kernels and high adaptability.
- Developed By: NRCC, Puttur
- Nuts per Tree: 12–14 kg/tree
- Nut Size: Large
- Kernel Outturn: 30–32%
- Regions: Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu
- Characteristics:
- Resistant to pest infestations and diseases.
- Suitable for both humid and semi-arid climates.
- Uses: Premium-grade nuts for export.
10. H-130
H-130 is a hybrid variety developed for high productivity and large nut size.
- Developed By: NRCC, Puttur
- Nuts per Tree: 14–16 kg/tree
- Nut Size: Large
- Kernel Outturn: 32–35%
- Regions: Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka
- Characteristics:
- Early-bearing and consistent production.
- High-quality nuts with a bold kernel size.
- Uses: Processing and premium markets.
India’s cashew industry continues to thrive with the adoption of high-yielding and region-specific varieties like Vengurla-4, Dharwad-1, NRCC Selection-2, and Bhaskara. By selecting improved varieties and adopting advanced farming practices, farmers can increase productivity, profitability, and meet the rising demand for high-quality cashew nuts in domestic and international markets
FAQs
Q1: Which state is the largest producer of cashews in India?
A: Maharashtra is the largest producer of cashews in India, followed by Kerala and Karnataka.
Q2: Which variety of cashew gives the highest yield?
A: Vengurla-7, NRCC Selection-2, and H-130 are known for their high yields and bold kernels.
Q3: How long does a cashew tree take to bear fruit?
A: Cashew trees typically start bearing nuts after 3–5 years, with peak production occurring after 8–10 years.
Q4: Which variety of cashew is suitable for coastal regions?
A: Vengurla-4, Goa-1, and Ullal-1 are well-suited for coastal and humid regions.
Q5: What is the average yield of cashew per tree?
A: On average, a cashew tree produces 10–15 kg of nuts per year, depending on the variety and management practices.
