The central government has issued rules for grading non-basmati aromatic rice. Under this, standards of characteristics and quality of five special varieties of rice have been fixed.
The government's move will benefit farmers who cultivate special rice varieties like Gobindabhog (West Bengal) and Kala Namak (Gorakhpur, UP). These rules will help in grading and marketing of non-aromatic basmati rice.
The non-Basmati Aromatic Rice Classification and Marking Rules, 2024, will apply to five rice varieties -- Gobindabhog, Tulaipanji, Kataribhog, Kalonunia (Kala Namak) and Radhunipagal, according to a notification issued by the Ministry of Agriculture on January 31. These rules have been issued under the Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act, 1937.
Vijay Setia, former president of All India Rice Exporters Association, told Rural Voice that the release of rules for grading non-basmati aromatic rice is a good news. This will give recognition to rice having special features, like the Gobindabhog.
The industry was demanding the issuance of rules for the grading of non-aromatic rice. The absence of grading rules was causing various difficulties in trading and international recognition of these rice.
The minimum expected characteristics, grade and quality criteria of non-basmati aromatic rice have been fixed under the grading rules as per the notification, a copy of which is available with Rural Voice.
This will also let consumers know their merits and help them in their business. Besides, it would check the sale of other varieties of rice in the garb of non-basmati aromatic rice.