STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: Assam rice varieties Joha, Aijung and Black rice have already made their presence felt in the world market. Another variety from the state, purple rice, is set to join the above three aromatic rice varieties to claim its share in the international market. Purple rice, named Labanya, is diabetic friendly.
The scientists of the Regional Agriculture Research Centre (RARC), Titabor, developed this variety of rice.
Talking to The Sentinel, RARC chief scientist Dr Sanjay Chetia said, "High-fibre and iron content makes Labanya good for diabetic patients. The yield of Labanya is higher than other rice varieties. It can bring smiles to farmers' faces. We have already reached an understanding with Flipkart and Amazon for selling this variety of rice. I hope this variety of rice will hit the international market next week at Rs 350 per packet containing one kg."
On the other hand, Joha rice and Aijung rice procured from the farmers of Kamrup and Nalbari districts were shipped to the UAE (United Arab Emirates) yesterday at the initiative of APEDA.
Talking to The Sentinel, APEDA Chairman M Angamuthu said, "Joha rice is distinct from other aromatic rice varieties like Basmati in its biochemical and other quality attributes. Assam and other states of the Northeast have favourable climate conditions and soil types for growing almost all agricultural and horticultural crops. There was a significant increase in the exports of agricultural produce from the northeastern states in the past six months."
APEDA promoted the exports of produces with GI (Geographical Indication) tag from the northeastern region like Bhoot Jolokia, lemon, jackfruits etc., besides litchis and pumpkins.
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