The Madhya Pradesh government has submitted a proposal to the Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for three crops: Sitahi Kutki (millets), Nagdaman Kutki, and Purple Pigeon Pea. These crops, primarily grown in tribal areas of Madhya Pradesh, are being championed by Jawaharlal Nehru Agricultural University, Jabalpur to secure the GI tag. The move aims to elevate Sitahi Kutki as a recognized brand nationally, opening up new market avenues and economic prospects for tribal farmers cultivating this millet variety.
Officials emphasize the significance of preserving and cultivating traditional crops like Kodo and Kutki in tribal regions, as the demand for these millets has surged, turning them into financially rewarding crops. The state government is actively procuring Kodo and Kutki millets from farmers at a rate of Rs 1,000 per quintal under the Rani Durgavati Shri Anna Promotion Scheme. Over 22,000 farmers from 16 districts, including Jabalpur, Mandla, Dindori, Chhindwara, Shahdol, Anuppur, Umaria, and Rewa, are participating in this initiative.
Sitahi Kutki, an indigenous variety of little millet with a short growth cycle of 60 days, is well-suited for rain-fed regions and late-sowing conditions, thriving even in hilly and infertile terrains. It holds the potential to significantly boost income for farmers from the Baiga and Gond tribes of Dindori. Similarly, Nagdaman Kutki, a unique local variant of Kutki millet cultivated in Dindori and other tribal-dominated districts, is known for its medicinal properties and exceptional nutritional value. The government underscores that obtaining a GI tag will provide official recognition that the crop meets stringent quality standards.
