Thane: Various rice planted in Wada in Palghar Maharashtra Regency has been tagged ‘geographical indication’ (GI), which will provide a unique identity and a wider market, said a senior agricultural official on Sunday.
Director Join Divisional Agriculture Ankush Mane said Wada Pond Rice got a GI tag in a meeting held in Mumbai on September 29.
Wada pools, also known as Zini or Jhini Rice, are traditional varieties planted in Wada Tehsil from Palghar, with wheat.
Off white in color.
It is valued between Rs 60-70 per kilogram in the domestic market and has considerable demand abroad too, officials said.
Anil Patil, a third-generation Wada pond farmer, said that around 2,500 people were involved in growing these varieties in 180 villages in Wada Taluka.
Previously, on September 29, Garlic Alibaug was given a GI tag, bringing recognition throughout the world to a unique sweetness, no-tear factor, and the nature of the medicine.
“It increases immunity, helping with insomnia, blood cleaning, blood pressure and heat-related disease,” said Navalkar Karuna, whose efforts were mentioned specifically during the GI tag process.