The Assam government has recently made a significant announcement that has put the spotlight on a unique local treasure – the Kaji Nemu, or Assam lemon, has been officially recognized as the state fruit. But what makes this citrus lemon so special to earn such a distinction, and how does this recognition affect Assam and its agricultural community?
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared the news, highlighting the Kaji Nemu’s unique aroma, antioxidant properties, and its integral role in Assam’s local cuisine. This decision is not just a nod to the fruit’s cultural significance but is also aimed at positioning the Kaji Nemu on the global fruit map, thereby promoting self-dependency and production within the state.
The journey to this recognition began in January 2018 when the CRSN Dihing Lemon Citrus Development Committee, in collaboration with Assam Agricultural University, applied for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the Kaji Nemu. By 2019, the fruit was granted the GI tag, a testament to its uniqueness and its exclusive presence in Assam. The GI tag not only celebrates the Kaji Nemu as a symbol of Assam’s tradition and self-respect but also protects its exclusivity, preventing unauthorized use of the name by producers outside of its geographical origin.
The declaration of Kaji Nemu as the state fruit is expected to bring joy and pride to the farmers of Assam and everyone involved in the agriculture sector. The fruit is cultivated across several districts in Assam, covering 15.90 hectares of agricultural land. With an annual production of 1.58 lakh metric tonnes, the Kaji Nemu has already made its mark beyond Indian borders, with 70,000 fruits exported to London and countries in the Middle East in the last two years alone.
This official recognition by the Assam government is a strategic move to further enhance the cultivation, marketing, and export of the Kaji Nemu. By declaring it the state fruit, the government aims to encourage farmers to increase production and tap into international markets, thereby boosting the local economy and showcasing Assam’s agricultural prowess on a global stage.
In conclusion, the Kaji Nemu’s designation as the state fruit of Assam is a celebration of its unique identity and a step towards elevating its status worldwide. This move not only honors the cultural significance of the Kaji Nemu but also opens up new avenues for growth and recognition for Assam’s agricultural community.
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