ICAR-DCR, Puttur Celebrates 41st Foundation Day

18 June 2026, Puttur

ICAR-Directorate of Cashew Research, Puttur, Karnataka, celebrated its 41st Foundation Day today with the theme “Nature-friendly Nutrient management in Cashew.” The programme brought together scientists, farmers, entrepreneurs, industry stakeholders, and officials to discuss sustainable pathways for the growth of the cashew sector.

Dr J. Dinakara Adiga, Director, ICAR-DCR, highlighted the Directorate’s achievements during the past year and outlined its future roadmap. He presented recent research advancements, including the newly released cashew variety ‘Nethra Samriddhi’, and emphasized the institute’s commitment to developing farmer-centric technologies for enhancing productivity, sustainability, and profitability.

The event was graced by Dr A. B. Patil, President, Institution of Agricultural Technologists, Bengaluru, as the Chief Guest. Delivering the Foundation Day Lecture, he stressed the importance of eco-friendly nutrient management, advocating the use of organic inputs and soil health restoration as the foundation for sustainable crop production. He also encouraged cashew growers to leverage opportunities in value addition and agri-entrepreneurship through various government support schemes.

Dr K. B. Hebbar, Director, CPCRI, Kasaragod, and Smt. Mamata D. S. Gatti, Chairman, Karnataka Cashew Development Corporation, Mangaluru, attended the programme as Guests of Honour.

On the occasion, outstanding scientists were recognized for their high-quality research publications. The Directorate also released several publications, a video showcasing its achievements, and “Cashew Connect,” an AI-powered chatbot designed to provide timely advisory services and technical information to cashew growers.

The programme featured interactive sessions where farmers and entrepreneurs engaged with experts on production, value addition, and government support mechanisms. Shri Radhakrishna of “Nitya” Food Industry shared his entrepreneurial journey and acknowledged the support received from ICAR-DCR and government agencies in establishing a successful cashew-based enterprise. Farmers also raised important sectoral issues, including the inclusion of cashew under crop insurance schemes, highlighting the need for continued policy support for the industry. A technical session was arranged on canopy management in cashew for the farmers and Krishi sakhis.

The Foundation Day celebrations reaffirmed ICAR-DCR’s commitment to advancing science, promoting sustainable cashew cultivation, and strengthening the livelihoods of cashew farmers and entrepreneurs across the country. A total of 106 participants attended the programme.

(Source: ICAR-Directorate of Cashew Research, Puttur, Karnataka)