ICAR and CAZCAR sign MoU
ICAR research Complex for Goa, Old Goa and CAZCAR Heritage Distillers signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for research on improvisation of traditional process of fermentation of cashew apple juice for feni production on 17th December, 2013. There are more than 2000 feni makers across the state of Goa who are actively engaged in feni making during the cashew season. Goa is the only state in India where cashew apples are used for feni making. However, the major constraints faced by the people inolved in feni industry include lack of consistency in quality, non-standardized processes in case of both product quality and for processes such as juice extraction, fermentation, distillation and variation in these process . Non-standardized fermentation, grossly overpriced, lack of awareness of feni intake, unattractive packaging, and unpleasant odour. This largely hampers the creation of unique brand for feni which can be launched globally.
Keeping the above constraints in view, Dr. Narendra Pratap Singh, Director, ICAR Research Complex for Goa, Old Goa and Shri. Gurudatta D. Bhakta, Managing Partner, CAZCAR, Mapusa representing public and private sectors, respectively signed the MoU for furthering the cause of boosting the feni production industry and removing its tag as country liquor. The purpose of public-private partnership through the MoU is mainly for enhancing the quality of the traditional product by way of refining the traditional wisdom. The partnership research will give technological boost to the manufacturers in particular and the state of Goa in general. With the improved quality, the marketability of feni can attain greater heights even at global level. The Institute Technology Management Unit of the Institute facilitated the process of bringing together the stakeholders for signing MoU. The process of technology development under MoU is of multidisciplinary nature involving Microbiology and Horticulture. Dr. A.R. Desai, Senior Scientist (Horticulture) and Dr. S.B. Barbuddhe, Principal Scientist (Veterinary Public Health) will facilitate the research from the ICAR side.