A rice variety widely grown in Wada in Maharashtra’s Palghar district has got the 'Geographical Indication' (GI) tag.

Key Points:

=> The tag will give the Palghar rice a unique identity as well as wider markets.

=> The decision to give GI tag to Wada Kolam rice was taken in a meeting held in Mumbai on September 29.

=> Wada Kolam, also known as Zini or Jhini rice, is a traditional variety grown in Wada tehsil of Palghar, with the grain being off white in colour.

=> It commands a price of Rs 60-70 per kilogram in domestic markets and has a sizable demand overseas as well.

=> Some 2,500 people are engaged in cultivating this variety in 180 villages in Wada taluka.