Assam Agricultural University has commercially launched biscuits and cakes made from purple rice, marking a major step in value addition to indigenous crops.

What is the initiative?

• The products – IndiGO purple rice cookies and IndiGO purple rice cakes – are developed from ‘Labanya’ purple rice.
• ‘Labanya’ is a Semi-Dwarf, Purple-Pigmented rice variety, developed by the Assam Rice Research Institute of Assam Agricultural University and released in 2021.
• The products were launched at the Jorhat campus in the presence of officials from National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development.
• It was officially registered under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPVFRA). 
  • This recognition marks a major step forward in the conservation and utilisation of indigenous genetic resources and promotion of nutritionally rich rice varieties.

Significance of ‘Labanya’ Purple Rice 

• Nutritional superiority:
  • Rich in antioxidants, iron, and dietary fibre
  • Low glycaemic index, suitable for diabetics
• Consumer-friendly traits:
  • Less glutinous, aromatic
  • Can be cooked faster, unlike traditional black rice ( 45 minutes-1 hour)
• High Yield: Produces 4.5–5.0 tonnes per hectare, nearly triple the yield of conventional black rice (1.5–2.0 t/ha).
• Lodging Resistance: Unlike traditional tall indigenous varieties that often topple (lodge) in heavy rain, Labanya’s shorter stature makes it more resilient.
• Milling Quality: Boasts a high head rice recovery rate (~60%), making it commercially viable for millers.
• Duration: It is a medium-duration crop, maturing in about 135–140 days.
• Gained popularity under the AAU SELECT initiative, with strong online and offline demand.

Value addition and farmer linkage

• After commercial success of the rice, Assam Agricultural University promoted value-added food products within two years.
• Two Farmer Producer Companies were integrated into the value chain:
  • Nakuhipat Farmer Producer Company – cultivation and supply of Labanya rice
  • Bajelbari Farmer Producer Company – processing and production of cookies and cakes
• Both Farmer Producer Companies receive technical handholding from Assam Agricultural University and financial support from National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development.

One-line wrap

Assam’s purple rice shows how science-led value addition can turn traditional crops into modern health foods.

Exam Hook – 

Q. With reference to ‘Labanya’ purple rice, consider the following statements:

1. It is rich in antioxidants and has a low glycaemic index.
2. It was developed by Assam Agricultural University and released in 2021.
3. Value-added products from this rice are linked with Farmer Producer Companies supported by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Correct answer: D

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