Sustainable Cashew Cultivation through Water Footprint Assessment and Conservation in Rayagada and Gajapati Districts, Odisha (India)

Abstract

Cashew cultivation, initially introduced for soil erosion control, has developed into an important contributor to global trade and a major livelihood source for small and marginal farmers, who represent over 70% of growers in India. In Odisha, with nearly 2.23 lakh hectares under cashew, large-scale plantations were initiated during 1954–55 under the Soil Conservation Department. This study focuses on Gajapati and Rayagada districts, where tribal communities rely on cashew cultivation but face constraints such as soil erosion due to hilly terrain, post-monsoon water scarcity, and climate variability. Targeted soil and water conservation (SWC) interventions were implemented in selected villages of Gunupur and Gumma blocks to address these challenges. The study estimates the water footprint of cashew, assesses the impact of SWC measures on soil erosion, and identifies strategies to improve productivity. Results indicate that the average water footprint is about 15 m³/kg for raw nuts and 50 m³/kg for shelled nuts, with water deficits of 223 mm (948 m³/ha) in Gajapati and 224 mm (971 m³/ha) in Rayagada. The implementation of SWC measures—such as contour trenches, bench terraces, water absorption trenches, coconut husk burial, mulching, and modified bunds— can reduce soil erosion, alleviate water deficits, and improve soil health, thereby supporting sustainable yields across plantation stages. In the absence of irrigation infrastructure, improved SWC practices are essential for enhancing cashew productivity, addressing climate change impacts, and sustaining livelihoods in these regions.