Salooni maize to get GI tag
Our Correspondent
Chamba, March 23
The Salooni valley in Chamba district is set to get a recognition at national and international level soon because of its traditional maize varieties.
The Salooni White Maize Organisation, a farmer association that had preserved the traditional varieties of maize, rich in taste and quality, will get a ‘geographical indicator (GI) tag shortly.
DC Rana, Deputy Commissioner, said a proposal was received from the organisation for the GI registration of the traditional varieties of maize. The proposal, along with all studies and facts, was submitted to the Patent Information Centre of the Himachal Pradesh State Science, Technology and Environment Council.
“The matter has now been referred to Chennai-based office of the GI Registrar and it is expected that farmers in the valley will get GI tag for maize shortly. The varieties include white maize, red maize and chitku (popcorn maize)”, DC said.
Panchayats of the valley include Bhandal, Sanuh, Kihar, Dand, Pichhla Diur, Kandhwara, Bhadela, Khadjauta, Himgiri, Panjei, Kilod and Suri panchayats.
Bhandal panchayat has received ‘plant genome saviour community award’ of Rs 10 lakh from the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority of the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
These varieties are sown in 158 hectares in 12 panchayats. White maize in particular is considered rich in protein. According to a study, maize is also better for heart. It is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. It is also helpful in controlling diabetes.
Rich in protein
- The Salooni White Maize Organisation has preserved traditional varieties of maize
- The varieties include white maize, red maize and chitku (popcorn maize)
- These varieties are sown in 158 hectares in 12 panchayats
- White maize in particular is considered rich in protein
- The maize is also better for heart.
