In Graphics: What is the GI tag that the Goan cashew has received?

Beyond beaches and the boho vibe, Goa is also synonymous with the cashew. The cashew came to the sunny state in the 16th Century, courtesy of the Portuguese. The locals took to it and now it has become part of the culture. In the years that followed, kaju as the Konkanis call it, became one of Goa’s biggest exports. The Goan cashew is special and a testimony to it is the GI (geographical indication) tag that it has recently received. Hailing the recognition Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant said that it was a great opportunity for the cashew industry in the state and “a milestone towards Swayampurna Goa mission”. “Goan cashew has a long and cherished heritage and this GI status helps to preserve our legacy,” he added. Now the Goan cashew has joined the extraordinary league of the state’s well-known chilli, the Khola chilli. **Also see: Goa cashews, Kashmiri Saffron and more: Indian foods that have got GI tags** But what exactly is a GI tag? And how will it benefit the Goan cashew? We explain in graphics.

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