The Directorate of Arecanut and Spices Development (DASD) was established on 1st April, 1966, in Calicut, Kerala, as a subordinate office under the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India. It is responsible for the development of arecanut, spices, aromatic plants, and betel vine at the national level. DASD coordinates various development activities implemented by state government departments, agricultural universities, and ICAR institutes. It also oversees critical programs for the development of these crops, including planting material production, technology dissemination, and nursery accreditation.