Kalaburagi’s GI-tagged tur dal wins PM’s praise after export to Maldives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the export of the region’s tur dal to the Maldives in his 139th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, cheering farmers and the district’s agricultural sector.

Kalaburagi’s GI-tagged tur dal has made its way to the international market, giving a boost to the Centre’s ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the export of the region’s tur dal to the Maldives in his 139th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, cheering farmers and the district’s agricultural sector.

Referring to the growing preference for indigenous products during the festive season, Mr. Modi said locally made goods were increasingly finding markets overseas. He said makhana from Purnia in Bihar was reaching Greece, and tur dal from Kalaburagi in Karnataka was being exported to the Maldives, pointing to new international market opportunities for Indian farmers.

Ramesh Kadaganchi of Kalaburagi facilitated the export of 10 quintals of GI-tagged tur dal to the Maldives through a Pune-based company about two months ago. Farmers received prices around 30% higher than the prevailing market rate in connection with the consignment, according to information provided by the Agriculture Department.

The export is expected to improve market prospects for Kalaburagi’s tur dal, whose geographical indication (GI) tag recognises its association with the region. The overseas shipment of Kalaburagi’s tur dal marks a step towards expanding the product’s international reach and improving returns for farmers.

Kalaburagi’s agricultural produce and traditional food products have featured in the Prime Minister’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme earlier as well. In a previous episode, Mr. Modi appreciated efforts to promote Kalaburagi’s ‘khadak rotti’ (crisp flatbread made of jowar flour) and expand its market.

The Agriculture Department is now looking to increase tur dal exports to other countries, including the United States, Canada and Australia. Samples have been sent to prospective overseas buyers, and the department is awaiting export orders, Kalaburagi Joint Director of Agriculture Samad Patel said.