Balanagar Sitaphal and Armoor Turmeric in race for GI tag

Hyderabad: After the renowned Warangal Chapata Chilli, also known as the “tomato chilli”, secured the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the Union government, the Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University (SKLTSHU) is now gearing up to get the prestigious recognition for two more contenders, Balanagar sitaphal (custard apple) and Armoor variety of turmeric, highlighting the state’s rich agro-biodiversity.

Balanagar sitaphal is known for its size, sugar-like pulp, sweetness, distinctive taste and superior quality. Pulpy fruit from this region is considered as a rich source of nutrients compared to all other varieties in the country. The fruit contains 26.22% total sugars, 20.34% reducing sugars and 28% total soluble solids.

These fruits are primarily grown in 30 villages in six mandals across Mahabubnagar, Rangareddy and Vikarabad districts. With several hybrids of the custard apple entering the market, the Horticultural university has decided to make a bid for GI tag for the Balanagar sitaphal variety. The fruit is typically harvested from August to October. It can be grown anywhere – forested and rocky soils, even in unused lands.

According to university officials, GI tag can be secured if the item satisfies the following key criteria: historical evidence, geographical evidence and proof of uniqueness.

A team of researchers has been conducting studies on the variety of Balanagar custard apple since July last year. The researchers visited villages and mandals to gather details from the growers about the characteristics of the Balanagar variety.

As part of the initiative, supported by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), they assessed the area of cultivation, checked the fruit’s historical background and collected DNA samples to analyse the nutrients and other unique characteristics of the fruit variety.

Similarly, the team also compiled crucial information on the unique characteristics of Armoor variety of turmeric for the GI registration. This variety of turmeric forms the major part of cultivation in Nizamabad district. Researchers believe that obtaining a GI tag for these two products will open up significant export opportunities and increase their market demand, which in turn will benefit farmers of Telangana.