Experts Study Balanagar Custard Apple for GI Tag
Subhajit Saha, GI facilitator, said that the Balanagar custard apple is a prime example of how geographical identity can connect people, society, and region
Hyderabad: A team of experts visited the unique geographical characteristics of the Balanagar custard apple in Mahbubnagar, for which a geographical indication (GI) registration has been sought. The experts studied custard apple trees, located on the bunds of fields in Pomal, Kollur, Kesharavalpalli, and Kothapalli of Nawabpet mandal in Mahabubnagar district.
The team later studied the custard apple varieties growing naturally in the forest areas adjacent to Kothapalli and Kalman Kalva in Chaudapur mandal of Vikarabad district to understand their characteristics. The final leg of the visit involved a study of the custard apple processing plant being run by farmers in Pomal village.
Dr Pidigam Saidaiah, principal researcher, said the basic information required for the application had been collected and would be submitted to the Geographical Indication Registry in Chennai.
Adding to this, Subhajit Saha, GI facilitator, said that the Balanagar custard apple is a prime example of how geographical identity can connect people, society, and region. This will be the first custard apple variety in South India to receive the GI tag.
P. Manohar Reddy, AGM of Nabard, said, “This recognition will improve additional income and employment opportunities for farmers in rural areas, and villages will grow economically. GI recognition will also enhance processing opportunities.”
