About Joha Rice:
- It is an indigenous rice of Assam.
- It is an indigenous aromatic rice variety known for its distinct fragrance, fine grain texture and rich taste.
- It is grown in Sali/ Kharif season.
- Major Joha varieties included in this are Kola Joha, Keteki Joha, Bokul Joha and Kunkuni Joha.
- This rice is also rich in several antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenolics.
- It has got Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2017.
- This rice variety has two unsaturated fatty acids viz., linoleic acid (omega-6) and linolenic (omega-3) acid.
- These essential fatty acids (which humans cannot produce) can help maintain various physiological conditions.
What is Geographical Indication Tag?
- It is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
- This is typically used for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts and industrial products.
- The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications relating to goods in India.
- This GI tag is valid for 10 years following which it can be renewed.
