Mangaluru: The ICAR–Directorate of Cashew Research (ICAR-DCR), Puttur, Karnataka, has been conferred the ‘Innovation and Technology Advancement Award’ by the Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC) during the first edition of the Agro-Food Processing Awards 2026, held in Bengaluru on Tuesday. The award recognises the directorate’s outstanding contributions towards developing innovative technologies that have the potential for transforming India’s cashew sectorThe recognition was bestowed for ICAR-DCR’s pioneering work in developing high-yielding cashew varieties, mechanisation technologies for production and processing, and innovative value-added technologies for cashew apple utilisation, which are creating new livelihood opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs while reducing post-harvest losses.Speaking on the occasion, J.Dinakara Adiga, director, ICAR-DCR, stated that the award is a testament to the dedicated efforts of the institute’s scientists and staff, industry partners and stakeholders in strengthening India’s cashew value chain through science-driven innovations. The BCIC award marks another significant milestone in the institute’s four-decade journey of scientific excellence and reinforces its commitment to advancing science, empowering farmers and strengthening India’s cashew value chain.
