Bhubaneswar: Odisha's 'Koraput Kalajeera Rice', a highly aromatic rice with nutritional value, was granted the Geographical Indications (GI) status.

Jaivik Sri Farmers Producer Company Limited at Pujariput in Koraput district had applied on January 11, 2022, for the Register of Koraput Kalajeera Rice under Application No. 814 in respect of Rice falling in Class-30.

An advertisement in this regard was issued on August 31, 2023 on the official website of the Geographical Indications Registry.

The farmers of Koraput district in Odisha, the centre of origin of cultivated rice, have domesticated Kalajeera Rice over generations. With the support of the NABARD and the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Empowerment of the Government of Odisha, the farmers' organisation received the GI tag for 'Koraput Kalajeera Rice'.

Koraput Kalajeera Rice known as the 'Prince of Rice' is an aromatic variety originating from Koraput district of Odisha. Upholding the nutritional and cooking quality, the rice looks like coriander seeds. The ancestors of the present tribal communities of Koraput district have domesticated rice in the region for thousands of years contributing to conservation of Kalajeera rice. It is popular among rice consumers for its black colour, good aroma taste and texture.

Jeypore area of Koraput district and surrounding geographical area is very prominent for Kalajeera Rice. The rice is grown in some of the places including Tolla, Patraput, Pujariput, Baliguda and Mohuli and many more.

The ancient text explains that Kalajeera rice improves memory and controls diabetes. It is believed to increase hemoglobin levels and the body metabolism. This fragrant grain has antispasmodic, stomachic, carminative, antibacterial, astringent and sedative properties.

Recently, 'Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal' and three more products from Odisha have received the GI tag from the Centre.

Read: Odisha's famous Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal gets GI tag