Acting on the long pending demand of cashew producers for protecting the Goan cashew and its unique identity, the State government on Friday announced grant of Geographical Indication (GI) tag for ‘Goan Cashew’ (nuts and apple). The Director of Industries, Trade and Commerce Swetika Sachan informed about the imminent granting of a GI tag for ‘Goan Cashew’. She said that the prestigious recognition, made possible through the completion of necessary formalities, will officially brand the renowned local product. Sachan further said that the GI tag is expected to significantly enhance the reputation and marketability of Goan cashews, providing a tremendous boost to the cashew industry as a whole. The Director of Industries was speaking during the One District One Product (ODOP) Sampark programme in Panjim. “In line with the shared objective of highlighting Goa's diverse range of handicrafts, art, and cultural heritage, the State government, in collaboration with Invest India, is embarking on a pioneering project —the establishment of a ‘Unity Mall’,†Sachan said. This “dynamic retail space†will serve as a comprehensive destination for visitors to immerse themselves in the essence of Goa, she added. The ‘Unity Mall’ will not only feature 'One District One Product' offerings but also showcase an extensive range of local handicrafts and provide exhibition spaces for state emporiums. “To further expand the scope of local product identification, the Government of Goa, in partnership with Invest India, is considering the implementation of the 'One Taluka One Product' scheme. This initiative aims to identify and promote specific agricultural produce and handicrafts from each Taluka in the State,†she said. “By diversifying the range of products associated with each taluka, the government seeks to unlock the untapped potential of local industries and foster sustainable economic growth across the region,†the senior official informed.