<p>The state government has notified a scheme to boost cashew production and meet the high market demand for cashew nut and apples. The scheme is called " Productivity Improvement in Cashew", and it is formulated to make cashew cultivation more reliable and economically more remunerative. The objective of the scheme is to demonstrate the use of manure and soil conservation measures to improve productivity and to maintain the soil health and prevent soil erosion in the areas undercashew cultivation.</p> <p>All the cashew growers recorded as owners or tenants or lessees would be considered for supply of manure and digging of trenches under this scheme.</p> <p>The assistance would be provided for a minimum of 30 trees (2000m2) and maximum 800 trees with additional 25%. Each selected farmer shall be provided with manure worth ` 12,800 per hectare of yielding trees (200 trees) in proportion to trees owned by him. In addition, ` 2,200 for digging contour trench across the slope to conserve water will also be provided, director of agriculture Satish Tendulkar said.</p> <p> </p>