Sun Jan 05 15:51:24 UTC 2025: ## New Drone and Horticulture Labs Boost Cashew Research in Karnataka

**Puttur, Karnataka – January 5, 2025** – A new drone technology laboratory and a Centre of Excellence for profiling bioactive components were inaugurated at the Directorate of Cashew Research (DCR) in Puttur, Dakshina Kannada on Friday. The facilities, funded by the Union Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare through the Karnataka state government, represent a significant advancement in cashew research and development.

The state-of-the-art drone laboratory will utilize Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to improve plantation crop research and promote sustainable farming techniques. Equipped with advanced drone systems and data processing tools, it offers a platform for innovative solutions in smart agriculture.

The Centre of Excellence will focus on analyzing the phytochemicals in various parts of the cashew plant – apple, nut, kernel, shell, and leaves – using advanced equipment like HPLC, GCMS, and UV visible spectrophotometers.

Simultaneously, a new value-added cashew sprout cookie, developed by DCR scientist Veena G.L., was licensed to a local producer. The healthy snack is touted as being free of refined flour, artificial colors, and flavors, and rich in protein and essential minerals.

Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education and Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Himanshu Pathak, officially opened the new facilities. Director of ICAR-DCR, J. Dinakara Adiga, highlighted the institute’s research achievements and technology transfer initiatives. The event marks a significant step forward for cashew research and the development of innovative, value-added products in the region.

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