The recent news highlights the innovative efforts of farmers in West Bengal to overcome the severe seawater intrusion into paddy fields in the Sundarbans, caused by Cyclone Amphan. The solution lies in experimenting with an unconventional variety of rice, known as pokkali, which is typically grown in the coastal districts of renowned state – Kerala. The seeds of Vyttila-11, a specific variety of pokkali, were brought from Kerala for this purpose.
Understanding Pokkali Rice
The pokkali variety of rice is celebrated for its exceptional resistance to saltwater, a quality that makes it thrive in the rice paddies of coastal regions, specifically Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and Thrissur in Kerala. This single-season paddy is cultivated in saltwater fields from June to November, followed by a season dedicated to fish-farming.
Pokkali’s distinctiveness has earned it the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, making it a subject of extensive research. Several foreign research institutions, including the International Rice Research Institute based in the Philippines, are studying the genetic profile of pokkali. These studies have revealed a crucial segment of DNA on one of its chromosomes that plays a vital role in its salt tolerance.
The Resilience of Pokkali Rice
Noted for its ability to withstand harsh climatic conditions and yield a considerable output, pokkali rice is an encouraging candidate for promoting climate-resilient agriculture. On the health front, pokkali offers significant medicinal benefits. Its rich antioxidant content and low carbohydrate level make it an ideal choice for individuals following a low sugar diet.
Introduction to Vyttila-11
Vyttila-11 is a recently developed variety of pokkali by the Kerala Agricultural University. It provides impressive results, yielding approximately 5 tons per hectare with a crop duration of about 110 days.
Other Prominent GI Tag Registered Varieties from Kerala
In addition to pokkali, several other rice varieties from Kerala have received the GI tag. These include Kaipad, Wayanad Jeerakasala, Wayanad Gandhakasala, Palakkadan Matta, and Navara. Furthermore, the unique Kuttanad below-sea level farming system has received recognition by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) due to its unique practice of cultivating rice below sea level.
Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS)
FAO initiated the GIAHS to protect and support the world’s exceptional agricultural heritage systems. These systems are marked by their breathtaking landscapes, rich agricultural biodiversity, resilient ecosystems, and invaluable cultural heritage. India is home to three recognized GIAHS sites: Pampore Saffron Heritage of Kashmir, Koraput Traditional Agriculture of Odisha, and the Kuttanad Below Sea Level Farming System of Kerala.
