New Delhi: Local specialties Bhaderwah Rajmash and Sulai honey from Jammu and Kashmir's Doda and Ramban districts have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags. The officials have said that the development represents a significant step forward in promoting these extremely popular regional items on a global scale, according to a PTI report.
"Doda and Ramban districts have got two GI tags today. One is Bhaderwah Rajmash, which is called red beans and another is for honey. It is the honey of Sulai in Ramban district. These are two important products of Chenab Valley," Director of Agriculture Production told PTI, adding that this move will help to double their income.
Jammu-based organisations had applied for a GI tag for eight different traditional items from various districts of the Jammu region last year. The director also said the process for GI tagging of these products was initiated by the department and finally it was granted on Tuesday.
About Bhaderwah Rajmash:
Jammu and Kashmir has a wide range of agro-climatic conditions. This hilly state is not just endowed with breathtaking natural beauty, but also has an abundance of natural resources, such as soil, water, climatic conditions, diversity, topography, and a diverse natural flora, all of which are conducive to the cultivation of a wide variety of pulses.
Bhaderwah Rajmash is well-known throughout the world for its delectable flavour. It has excellent cooking qualities, is easily digestible, and has an appealing colour. The grains are small in size and have a distinct flavour and colour. This popular dish is served at almost all occasions throughout the region.
Additionally, Bhaderwah Rajmash is in high demand all over the world, hence, there is a need to expand the area, production, and productivity of this important pulse in the district, as it is a good source of income for the farmers in the area.
Health Benefits Of Rajmash:
A 100 g serving of boiled Rajmash beans contains 140 calories, 5.7 g of protein, 5.9 g of fat, and nearly 17.8 g of carbohydrate. It is also high in soluble fibre and high in anti-oxidants, in addition to its unique flavour and taste.
Rajmash-kidney beans support amino acid metabolism, gluconeogenesis, neurotransmitter synthesis, fatty acids, lipids, histamine synthesis, and haemoglobin synthesis. Additionally, it is extremely beneficial in maintaining healthy skin.
In North India, rajmash and rice is a very common dish. Rajmash and rice from Peerah in Ramban district are well-known, and Rajmash from Chinta Valley in Doda district is said to be among the best. Since ancient times, it used to be grown as an intercrop with maize, which became ideal for generating high economic value in hilly areas while also enhancing soil sustainability.
All About The GI Tag:
Talking about what a GI tag is all about, Director of Agriculture Production told PTI, "A geographical indication or geographical indication tag is a trade name or label applied to a particular product that designates a particular geographic region or country of origin. The GI tag's primary feature is its uniqueness, which guards against any form of third-party misuse."
"Now, only an authorised user has the exclusive rights to use the geographical indication in relation to these products," the director added.
Furthermore, he said, "No person can copy it from beyond their geographical areas. This will prevent unauthorised use of these registered Geographical Indication goods by third parties and will boost exports and promote their brands at the international level," reported PTI.
Additionally, GI tagging will also promote the economic prosperity of locals in the geographical territory and will act as a tool for the socio-economic growth of the producer.