Nashik-based Sahyadri Farmer Producer Company, India’s leading grape exporter, has now entered into cashew processing sector by setting up a cashew processing plant with an investment of Rs 20 crore. “The plant has a capacity to process 100 tonnes of cashew per day. A cashew shells processing plant of 20 tonnes per day capacity to produce oil from cashew shells has also been set up,†said Sahyadri in a media release. Sahyadri is present in processing of fruits and vegetables and is also one of the largest processors of tomatoes in the country manufacturing ketchup and tomato sauce for some of the top FMCG brands in the country. Vilas Shinde, president, Sahyadri FPO said, “Despite being the leading cashew producer in the world, India is not able to meet its domestic requirement of cashews. There is an immense opportunity in cashew farming, which can transform the economy of the Konkan region and areas in the Sahyadri mountain range,†Sahyadri claimed that the plant will create employment for more than 300 women in the region. The company plans to tap markets in Europe and the USA, although the domestic market will be the focus area for the cashew business.